China Southern Airlines launched a new passenger service linking Guangzhou and Addis Ababa via Changsha, with the inaugural flight arriving at Addis Ababa Bole International Airport on October 12, carrying 224 passengers, Capital Newspaper reported.
Direct Flight Launch Connects Guangzhou and Addis Ababa
The newly established air route operates twice a week on Mondays and Fridays using Boeing 787 wide-body aircraft, according to Capital Newspaper. The inaugural flight, designated as flight CZ8095, landed at Addis Ababa Bole International Airport with 224 passengers on board. Xinhua reported that a subsequent launch event took place on Tuesday in the Ethiopian capital, marking an expansion of the airline’s route network in Africa and establishing a direct connection between Addis Ababa and two of China’s provinces.
Yohannes Abera, director general of the Ethiopian Civil Aviation Authority, noted at the launch event that the service creates a direct link to dynamic Chinese commercial centers while reinforcing Addis Ababa’s status as a regional aviation hub. The return service, flight CZ8096, departs from Addis Ababa for Guangzhou through Changsha.
Diplomatic and Corporate Perspectives on the Air Corridor
Zeng Yongchao, executive vice president of China Southern Air Holding Company, stated during the Addis Ababa event that the route aims to stimulate business opportunities and ease the transportation of passengers and cargo between Asia and Africa. Zeng added that the new service supports the Belt and Road Initiative and fosters economic and cultural cooperation.
Liu Xiaoguang, minister counselor of the Chinese Embassy in Ethiopia, described the route as a practical step toward fulfilling the consensus reached at the Forum on China-Africa Cooperation. Liu noted that China Southern Airlines maintains the largest fleet, widest route network, and highest annual passenger volume among Chinese carriers, positioning the new service to expand the conceptual “Air Silk Road.”
Operational Details and Airport Reception
Upon landing at Addis Ababa Bole International Airport, the inaugural flight received a traditional water salute. Representatives from the Chinese Embassy, Ethiopian government agencies, Ethiopian Airlines, and local media gathered at the airport to welcome the passengers and crew.
The airline stated that flight schedules remain subject to change and advised travelers to verify current departure and arrival information prior to booking. The connection stands as the exclusive direct route to Ethiopia currently operated by a Chinese airline.
Frequently Asked Questions
Which aircraft models does China Southern Airlines use for the Addis Ababa route?
The airline operates Boeing 787 wide-body aircraft for the service connecting Guangzhou, Changsha, and Addis Ababa, according to Capital Newspaper.
How many weekly flights operate on this route?
The service operates twice a week, with flights scheduled on Mondays and Fridays, as reported by Xinhua.
Who operated the welcoming ceremony at the airport?
Representatives of the Chinese Embassy in Ethiopia, Ethiopian government institutions, Ethiopian Airlines, airport management, and local media attended the welcoming ceremony at Addis Ababa Bole International Airport, which included a traditional water salute.
The new route will give fresh impetus to people-to-people exchanges and deeper economic and trade cooperation between China and Ethiopia, and between China and Africa more broadly.
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