Flight Buzz
Porto: Ethiopian Airlines Expands Routes With New Flight Service To Northern Portugal
Saturday, July 5, 2025
Ethiopian Airlines, the flag carrier of Ethiopia, has officially launched a new flight service connecting Addis Ababa (ADD), the Ethiopian capital, to Porto (OPO), Portugal. This new route, which includes a technical stop in Madrid (MAD), marks Ethiopian Airlines’ first service to northern Portugal and further strengthens its growing presence in Europe. The new route offers fresh connectivity between Africa and the Iberian Peninsula, opening up new travel options for passengers in northern Portugal and surrounding regions.
Porto, Portugal’s second-busiest airport, now becomes a key part of Ethiopian Airlines’ extensive European network, which already spans over 20 destinations. This new addition comes as part of the airline’s ongoing expansion efforts to meet increasing demand for connectivity and bolster its role as a central hub for Africa-Europe travel.
A New Gateway to Northern Portugal
Ethiopian Airlines’ new service will connect Addis Ababa Bole International Airport (ADD) with Porto Airport (OPO), with a technical stop in Madrid (MAD) on the westbound leg of the journey. This addition brings Ethiopian Airlines’ total destinations in Portugal to two, complementing its long-standing service to Lisbon.
The flights will operate four times a week, utilizing Ethiopian Airlines’ Boeing 787 Dreamliner aircraft, which are known for their comfort and efficiency. These planes offer both passenger seating and belly cargo capacity, allowing the airline to cater to both travelers and cargo needs.
The new route provides a much-needed direct flight option for travelers in northern Portugal, who previously had to transit through Lisbon or other European hubs to reach Africa or Asia. The ability to fly directly from Porto offers significant convenience for passengers traveling between the Iberian Peninsula and destinations in Africa, as well as for those heading to Ethiopia’s extensive network of flights across the continent and beyond.
Flight Schedule and Operations
Ethiopian Airlines will operate the new Porto route on Tuesdays, Thursdays, Saturdays, and Sundays. The outbound flight, ET712, departs Addis Ababa at 01:35 am local time, arriving in Madrid at 07:55 am. After a brief 1-hour and 15-minute fuel stop, the flight continues to Porto, reaching the Portuguese city at 10:00 am local time.
On the return leg, flight ET713 departs Porto at 9:10 pm and arrives in Addis Ababa at 06:00 am the next day, completing the route. This schedule ensures flexibility for passengers traveling on either side of the route, providing an efficient and practical travel option.
The addition of this service is significant as it provides not only an alternative for travelers but also a crucial link between Porto and Ethiopia’s hub in Addis Ababa. The technical stop in Madrid allows for a more efficient travel experience, as it opens up access to additional European cities while maintaining direct connections to northern Portugal.
A Strategic Move for Ethiopian Airlines
Ethiopian Airlines has long been a pivotal connector between Africa and the rest of the world, with Addis Ababa serving as a strategic hub. The new Porto route plays a key role in this strategy, tapping into the underserved northern Portugal market, which historically has lacked direct links to sub-Saharan Africa.
Porto’s catchment area extends beyond northern Portugal, including parts of northwestern Spain. This broadens the potential customer base for Ethiopian Airlines, offering better access to a region with strong ties to Portuguese-speaking African countries such as Angola, Mozambique, Guinea-Bissau, and others. These ties are crucial for the airline, which has a long history of serving African destinations and fostering connections with diaspora communities.
Additionally, Porto is a significant hub for exports, being home to Portugal’s second-largest export economy and one of its busiest seaports. Ethiopian Airlines recognizes the importance of this for cargo services, as the demand for perishable goods, textiles, and industrial products from northern Portugal is expected to grow. Ethiopian’s Boeing 787 Dreamliners offer belly cargo capacity, making the airline well-positioned to serve this market, providing vital air freight connections for businesses in both Africa and Europe.
Expanding European Reach Beyond Major Hubs
The introduction of the Porto route aligns with Ethiopian Airlines’ strategy of expanding its European network beyond traditional hubs like Lisbon, Brussels, and Frankfurt. In recent years, Ethiopian Airlines has launched flights to secondary cities, including Geneva and Manchester. These routes are designed to meet demand for direct services and to serve the growing trade and diaspora traffic between Europe and Africa.
Ethiopian Airlines has also demonstrated a flexible approach with these routes, often starting with limited frequencies and adjusting based on passenger demand and commercial viability. The four-weekly schedule for the Porto route provides the airline with the flexibility to scale the service if demand increases. The ability to adjust frequencies is important, as the airline continues to fine-tune its network to meet shifting travel trends and the needs of both business and leisure travelers.
Looking Toward the Future
Ethiopian Airlines’ new Porto service is not only an important addition to its European network, but it is also a vital step toward diversifying the airline’s reach and strengthening its position as a leader in African aviation. The airline’s long-term plans include expanding its network of destinations across Europe and beyond, offering more choices for travelers seeking direct routes between Africa, Europe, and other global destinations.
In conclusion, the launch of the Porto route further solidifies Ethiopian Airlines’ commitment to connecting Africa with Europe and the world. Whether for business, leisure, or connecting flights to Africa and Asia, the new service offers greater convenience, flexibility, and access to one of Europe’s most vibrant and growing regions. As the airline continues to adapt to the changing dynamics of global travel, services like this one ensure Ethiopian Airlines remains at the forefront of connecting the world to Africa.
(Source: Ethiopian Airlines, Government of Ethiopia, Ministry of Transport, Portugal Aviation Authorities)
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Flight Buzz
Punjab Governor Meets Union Civil Aviation Minister To Discuss Enhanced Connectivity At Chandigarh Airport | Auto News
Last Updated:
Kataria emphasised that enhanced connectivity, particularly direct international flights, would significantly boost tourism and support the economic aspirations.
Representational image. (File photo)
Punjab Governor Gulab Chand Kataria on Friday met Union Civil Aviation Minister Kinjarapu Ram Mohan Naidu and urged him to further strengthen the connectivity from Chandigarh airport.
According to an official release, during the meeting, the Governor discussed the need to strengthen both domestic and international air connectivity from Shaheed Bhagat Singh International Airport in Chandigarh, given the growing demand from residents of Punjab, Haryana, Himachal Pradesh, and the UT of Chandigarh.
He highlighted that Chandigarh Airport serves as a crucial gateway for the entire northern region, especially for the people of Punjab and the adjoining areas.
Kataria emphasised that enhanced connectivity, particularly direct international flights, would significantly boost tourism, facilitate business travel, and support the economic aspirations of the region.
The Union Minister assured that the Ministry would actively explore possibilities and work with all stakeholders, including airlines and airport operators, to improve connectivity and upgrade passenger facilities at the airport.
The meeting marked a constructive step towards strengthening the aviation infrastructure and expanding Chandigarh’s global and domestic reach.
Earlier on Wednesday, Punjab Chief Minister Bhagwant Singh Mann sought the intervention of Union Food Minister Pralhad Joshi for the release of the state’s pending share of over Rs 9,000 crore related to the Rural Development Fund (RDF) and Market Fees.
According to a Punjab government release, during a meeting at the Minister’s residence, the Chief Minister raised the issue of non-allowance of RDF since KMS 2021-22 and insufficient allowance of Market Fees since RMS 2022-23.
The Chief Minister emphasised that the purpose of RDF is to promote agriculture and rural infrastructure, including the development of rural roads, marketing infrastructure, storage facilities in mandis, and automation and mechanisation of mandis.
He said that despite amending the Punjab Rural Development Act, 1987, in accordance with the Department of Food & Public Distribution (DFPD) guidelines, the RDF has not been released since KMS 2021-22.
Bhagwant Singh Mann stated that Rs 7,737.27 crore under RDF and Rs 1,836.62 crore under Market Fees are still pending from the Union Government.
Shahrukh Shah, Sub-Editor at News18, loves to write about everything that moves on wheels. With years of experience and the required skill sets, he is contributing to the auto section, where he let people know …Read More
Shahrukh Shah, Sub-Editor at News18, loves to write about everything that moves on wheels. With years of experience and the required skill sets, he is contributing to the auto section, where he let people know … Read More
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Chandigarh, India, India
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Flight Buzz
United, Westjet, Jet2.com, AirAsia, flynas, Volaris, Spring Airlines on Travel Industry Headlines in Launching New Routes to Boost Tourism in This July
Saturday, July 19, 2025
The global skies are buzzing this July as airlines across continents gear up for a bold wave of route launches aimed at reigniting international tourism. From North America to Asia and Europe, major carriers like United Airlines, WestJet, Jet2.com, AirAsia, flynas, Volaris, and Spring Airlines are rolling out new connections that promise to reshape travel patterns and open fresh gateways for adventure, business, and cultural exchange.
These new routes reflect a strategic response to rising travel demand, changing traveler behavior, and the accelerating momentum of post-pandemic recovery. Whether it’s connecting underserved cities, boosting regional tourism, or expanding into high-demand leisure hubs, each airline is signaling confidence in the sector’s long-term growth. For travelers, this means more choices, better connectivity, and renewed excitement as borders continue to open.
July 2025 is shaping up to be a pivotal month in the aviation calendar—one that’s setting the tone for the rest of the year.
Global Airline Giants Launch Game-Changing Routes in July 2025
The aviation industry is entering a new phase of global connection this summer. With pent-up demand surging and international relations shifting travel access across continents, July 2025 has become a defining month for route expansion. A wave of new, strategic long-haul flights is reshaping air travel—and travelers from Asia to Europe to North America are seeing unprecedented access to key global cities.
From IndiGo’s historic leap into Western Europe to Emirates’ strengthening grip on Chinese airspace, the message is clear: international airlines are on the move, and they’re not slowing down.
IndiGo Lands in Western Europe With Ambitious Long-Haul Debut
India’s largest low-cost carrier, IndiGo, is making aviation history with its first-ever flights to Western Europe. On July 1, the airline will launch a thrice-weekly nonstop service from Mumbai to Amsterdam, followed by Mumbai to Manchester on July 2. Both routes will operate using wide-body Boeing 787-9 aircraft on lease from Norse Atlantic Airways.
This bold move makes IndiGo the only Indian carrier offering direct flights on these underserved city pairs. It also positions the airline as a serious long-haul contender at a time when India’s outbound travel market is booming. The airline’s decision reflects rising demand from Indian travelers for seamless access to Europe, and it gives Amsterdam and Manchester new direct links to one of Asia’s most dynamic economies.
China Eastern Expands Footprint With Strategic European Routes
As Chinese outbound travel continues to rebound, China Eastern Airlines is doubling down on its European ambitions. On July 9, the carrier launches a once-weekly Nanjing to Paris Charles de Gaulle service using Boeing 777-300ERs. Just a week later, on July 17, it adds a 3X-weekly Shanghai Pudong to Copenhagen route, operated with Airbus A330-200s.
This expansion is backed by a major competitive edge: access to Russian airspace. While many Western carriers remain locked out due to geopolitical sanctions, Chinese airlines are using the corridor to maintain shorter flight paths, saving time and fuel. The Copenhagen service also strategically taps into China Eastern’s SkyTeam partnership with Scandinavian Airlines, boosting connectivity into Northern Europe.
Emirates Ramps Up China Flights Amid Soaring Demand
The UAE’s Emirates Airlines continues to strengthen its China network with two major additions in July. On July 1, it will begin service to Shenzhen, followed by a new nonstop route to Hangzhou starting July 30. Both flights will use Boeing 777-300ER aircraft, and bring Emirates’ total weekly departures to mainland China to 49.
These moves are part of a calculated effort to meet growing bilateral demand for business travel and trade between China and the Gulf. Shenzhen and Hangzhou, as major tech and manufacturing hubs, serve as high-value routes for both passenger and cargo services. Emirates’ expansion further consolidates its role as a bridge between Asia and the Middle East.
Etihad Eyes US Growth With New Atlanta Route
Etihad Airways, also based in the UAE, is ramping up its U.S. operations. On July 2, the airline launches a four-times-weekly service from Abu Dhabi to Atlanta using Airbus A350-1000 aircraft. The route is expected to go daily by November, making Atlanta the fourth American city in Etihad’s portfolio, alongside New York, Washington, and Chicago.
Atlanta’s addition connects the Middle East to one of the busiest hubs in North America, opening new opportunities for business travel, international students, and luxury tourism. The route further enhances Etihad’s transatlantic footprint and diversifies U.S. connectivity beyond the traditional coastal gateways.
United Airlines Expands Intra-Asia Network With Taiwan Link
In the Pacific, United Airlines is taking a bold step by adding a new daily flight between Tokyo Narita and Kaohsiung, Taiwan, starting July 11. Operated with Boeing 737-800 aircraft, the route positions United as the only U.S. carrier serving Taiwan’s second-largest city.
This intra-Asia expansion not only boosts regional mobility but also strengthens United’s alliance network in East Asia. With growing interest in secondary Asian cities and tighter U.S.-Taiwan ties, Kaohsiung becomes a strategic entry point for business and tourism from the U.S. and Japan alike.
The Bigger Picture: Global Connectivity Is Back in Full Force
The flurry of new routes this July represents more than seasonal demand. It reflects a travel world redefined by post-pandemic recovery, new airline alliances, and economic diplomacy. Carriers are placing bold bets on emerging markets, underserved routes, and long-haul growth corridors that reflect changing traveler preferences.
Travelers benefit from faster access, more nonstop options, and new combinations of city pairs that were previously either inconvenient or impossible. Airports are adjusting as well, with expanded customs facilities, route-specific marketing, and local tourism boards mobilizing to welcome fresh streams of visitors.
What This Means for Travel Stakeholders
Tour operators, hotels, and destinations connected to these new routes should prepare for increased demand. Marketing in local languages, promoting cultural familiarity, and optimizing for digitally savvy travelers will be essential. Airlines, meanwhile, will need to invest in route sustainability, staff readiness, and value-driven onboard experiences to secure loyalty in competitive long-haul markets.
With each new flight, the travel ecosystem becomes more interconnected. And as we head deeper into 2025, the skies are not only open—they’re transforming at full speed.
Tags: Abu Dhabi, Amsterdam, Atlanta, china, Copenhagen, denmark, france, Hangzhou, japan, Manchester, mumbai, nanjing, new airline, Paris, Shanghai, shenzhen, Taiwan, Tourism, travel industry, UAE, UK, United States
Salem officials are still determining the future of the city-run airport after Avelo Airlines announced Monday it would shutter its West Coast operations, ending weekly flights from Salem to Las Vegas and the Los Angeles area.
Meanwhile, business leaders who spent years trying to bring commercial flights to Salem, said they’re working on recruiting a new airline to serve Oregon’s capital.
Avelo’s abrupt departure came after less than two years of flights out of Salem, while the airline had subsidies in effect to start up its operations.
Airline leaders said the decision didn’t reflect on Salem’s performance, and city data shows flights were mostly full, particularly on the route to Burbank in the Los Angeles area.
The airline also faced protests in Salem and other cities over its decision to fly deportation flights out of the southwest, though company officials said the protests didn’t impact business or contribute to their decision to leave.
Some 2,100 passengers flew out of Salem in June, city data shows, with a near equal number coming in.
Avelo is closing its Burbank base in December and ending flights to all other West Coast cities. Its last Salem flight will be Aug. 10.
The departure is likely to reignite disagreements in Salem over whether the city should continue efforts to recruit an airline.
City councilors haven’t publicly commented on Avelo’s departure.
They’re due to receive a briefing in a July 28 city council meeting and will discuss the issue Aug. 18.
Councilors were unanimous in a 2023 vote to to use $2.4 million from the city’s general fund to pay for terminal upgrades and beef up airport operations.
Supporters, largely from the business and tourism groups, cited the economic benefits to Salem and convenience for travelers. Detractors raised concerns about the city’s priorities given an impending budget deficit, the viability of air service given the proximity of Eugene and Portland airports, and the environmental and noise impacts of commercial flights.
Brent DeHart is an aviation fueling business owner who leads the Fly Salem Steering Committee. He said now is the ideal time to recruit a new airline. Salem has an upgraded terminal and data showing people will fly to and from the city — factors not in place when Avelo was in talks.
Avelo flights to Burbank in June were 87% full, down slightly from 90% in June 2024, he said. The airline’s Las Vegas flights, which started year-round and then became seasonal, were 77% full in June, up from 72% in 2024.
“Those are very good and sustainable numbers typically,” DeHart said in an email.
That occurred as domestic air travel nationwide declined.
Air service costs and benefits
Getting Avelo to Salem took a patchwork of government and private money. Some of that spending was to improve the airport in ways that can be used by any carrier.
Other money subsidized Avelo’s costs to fly to Salem.
Salem set aside $1.2 million to pay Avelo over its first two years if flights didn’t bring in as much revenue as expected. None of that money came from city coffers — $850,000 was a federal grant, and $350,000 was from private donations raised by Travel Salem.
Through the end of June, Salem spent $854,733 of that total, or 71%, city spokeswoman Erin Neff said. Of that, about $600,000 came from the federal grant, which has to be returned if unused. About $250,000 came from private donations.
Airport operating costs increased with commercial service, and Avelo didn’t stay long enough for the city to begin making money to offset those increases.
The city waived airport fees for the airline during its first two years of operation in Salem, according to the contract – a standard incentive used by airports to lure new airlines.
READ IT: Avelo’s contract with the city of Salem and minimum revenue guarantee
Had Avelo stayed longer, the company would have paid $1 per departing passenger starting in year three, and $1.50 per square foot of rented terminal space at the airport.
Other city money was used for terminal improvements and equipment, most notably the 2023 renovation at a little under $2 million.
A $540,000 state grant in 2022 allowed the city to buy equipment and vehicles needed to serve aircraft.
The city keeps that equipment, so those costs won’t be repeated if another airline comes to town.
“There’s a disconnect in people’s minds that the money was spent for Avelo,” DeHart said.
The money modernized the terminal, he said.
“It’s turnkey ready to go with no further financial investment,” he said.
The airport has also attracted additional federal money for improvements because it had commercial air service, DeHart said.
In 2025, the airport received $1.7 million from several federal grants for security, terminal and aircraft parking improvements, Neff said.
A city airport consultant said in the fall that Avelo’s first year of operations brought $19 million to Salem’s economy through spending from visitors on hotels, restaurants and more.
A new airline?
Travel Salem and the Salem Area Chamber of Commerce support the effort to recruit a new airline.
Both sent out a survey shortly after Avelo’s announcement to gauge support for a new airline and see where people want flights to go.
That came as budget carrier Breeze Airways announced Thursday it was beefing up its West Coast operations to fill many routes vacated by Avelo, including adding flights to Eugene and Redmond. Salem wasn’t on the list.
DeHart said a group is working on an incentive package for a new carrier, which would include revenue guarantees and airport fee waivers. It’s not yet clear where the money for those efforts would come from, and the city council likely would need to commit to any city spending.
“Fly Salem feels very confident with a competitive incentive package that we would also be on the list for airlines to take up the vacating routes,” he said.
RELATED COVERAGE:
Councilors won’t act on Avelo contract, saying it’s financially risky
One year in, Avelo has received $446k from grant to subsidize Salem operations
Avelo cancels Salem-Las Vegas flights, shifting to seasonal route
Contact reporter Rachel Alexander: [email protected] or 503-575-1241.
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Rachel Alexander is Salem Reporter’s managing editor. She joined Salem Reporter when it was founded in 2018 and covers education, economic development and a little bit of everything else. She’s been a journalist in Oregon and Washington for a decade and is a past president of Oregon’s Society of Professional Journalists chapter. Outside of work, you can often find her gardening or with her nose buried in a book.
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