DUBAI, Jan 11 (Reuters) – Ethiopian Airways is worthwhile and money optimistic, underpinned by booming demand for air cargo, its chief govt mentioned on Tuesday.
The air freight market has been a uncommon brilliant spot for airways over the previous two years, with charges rising attributable to a web-based procuring surge and pandemic-linked provide chain disruptions driving demand for cargo area.
“For us, Ethiopian Airways, the cargo enterprise is robust and I might say is a breadwinner within the group,” CEO Tewolde Gebremariam instructed a Dubai convention by videolink.
The airline, which he mentioned managed the pandemic with its personal funds and with out bailouts, is working near 70% of its pre-pandemic capability, and had given workers pay rises and bonuses.
“We’re cash-positive. We’re worthwhile.”
Whereas demand for passenger journey is bettering year-on-year, with 2022 anticipated to be higher for airways than 2021, Gebremariam cautioned the trade was nonetheless removed from a full restoration from the disaster.
Gebremariam criticised what he known as the “fragmented, uncoordinated” responses by governments world wide to the pandemic, which he blamed for creating bottle necks and the sluggish restoration in passenger journey.
He additionally singled out Dubai of the United Arab Emirates, the Center East journey hub, which has banned those that have just lately been in Ethiopia and 13 different African international locations from getting into or transiting.
Ethiopian Airways had not flown passengers to Dubai in 3-4 weeks, Gebremariam mentioned.
“I do not assume that helps for the journey and tourism and economic system of Dubai as effectively.”
Reporting by Alexander Cornwell; Modifying by Clarence Fernandez, Kirsten Donovan
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