Published on
January 8, 2026
Ethiopian Airlines is expanding its reach into Europe with the introduction of a new thrice-weekly service to Lyon, France, via Geneva, Switzerland, starting 2 July 2026. This marks the airline’s latest addition to its growing European network and strengthens its position in the French market. With the new Lyon route, Ethiopian Airlines will now serve three destinations in France, complementing its existing services to Paris and Marseille. The new service further connects travelers from Europe to Africa and beyond, enhancing the airline’s global footprint.
The launch of the Lyon-Geneva route brings Ethiopian Airlines’ services to 65+ destinations across Africa, while also improving access to major European hubs. This new route provides travelers with seamless connections to and from Ethiopia’s capital, Addis Ababa, as well as onward connections to other parts of Africa, Asia, the Middle East, and beyond.
The Benefits of the New Lyon Service
The new Lyon service opens up a wealth of travel opportunities for both leisure and business travelers. Known for its rich history, vibrant culture, and renowned gastronomy, Lyon is often considered the culinary capital of France and a UNESCO World Heritage site. It is a must-visit destination for those interested in exploring the French countryside, enjoying world-class cuisine, and discovering historical landmarks.
Geneva, with its international allure, will act as a connecting hub for travelers heading to and from Lyon. Positioned at the heart of Europe, Geneva is home to a variety of international organizations, cultural institutions, and a flourishing tourism industry. By connecting Geneva and Lyon with Addis Ababa, Ethiopian Airlines is enabling smoother travel between these key cities and the rest of the world.
The new route is especially significant for travelers between Europe and Africa, providing enhanced connectivity to key African destinations. From Addis Ababa, Ethiopian Airlines offers travelers easy access to more than 65 destinations across Africa, including major cities like Nairobi, Cape Town, Lagos, Accra, and Dar es Salaam.
Expanding the French Market Reach
This new Lyon service marks another significant step in Ethiopian Airlines’ strategy to expand its European presence. Since its launch in 1964, Ethiopian Airlines has been committed to providing exceptional service and fostering stronger connections between Europe and Africa. The addition of Lyon, following Ethiopian’s already established routes to Paris and Marseille, strengthens its position as a leading airline connecting Europe to Africa.
With Lyon being an important cultural, economic, and industrial hub, Ethiopian Airlines is tapping into a growing market that increasingly demands convenient travel options between Europe and Africa. The service to Lyon will open up more travel opportunities for passengers traveling from France to various African countries, as well as allow African travelers to explore France’s second-largest metropolitan area.
Enhancing Travel to Africa
The new Lyon service also enhances Ethiopian Airlines’ ability to provide unparalleled connectivity to the African continent. Ethiopia serves as a major aviation hub for African travel, and Ethiopian Airlines continues to expand its fleet and improve its global network to meet growing demand for travel within Africa and to international destinations.
By operating a fleet of young, modern aircraft, Ethiopian Airlines offers a comfortable and efficient flying experience, with world-class service on board. Whether traveling for business, leisure, or transit, passengers will benefit from the airline’s continued investment in modern aircraft, ensuring a smooth and enjoyable journey.
Additionally, the airline’s hub in Addis Ababa is strategically positioned to facilitate easy connections across Africa, allowing passengers to travel seamlessly across the continent. With its extensive African network, Ethiopian Airlines is a key player in connecting African countries to Europe and other parts of the world.
Strengthening Ethiopian Airlines’ Global Footprint
The launch of the Lyon-Geneva route is just one example of Ethiopian Airlines’ ongoing expansion and its broader international growth strategy. The airline’s global footprint now spans Europe, Africa, Asia, and the Middle East, as it continues to increase its reach through new routes and expanded services.
Ethiopian Airlines’ growth in Europe, particularly with new services like Lyon, complements its network expansion in other regions. The airline has been rapidly increasing its services to the Middle East, Asia, and Africa, contributing to its status as Africa’s largest and most profitable airline. The carrier’s commitment to maintaining a modern and efficient fleet, coupled with its increasing global presence, positions it as a leading airline in international travel.
As the airline continues to expand its network, travelers can expect more convenient and affordable access to destinations across the globe. The new Lyon service is part of Ethiopian Airlines’ strategy to continue delivering exceptional value to its passengers while bolstering its position as a key player in international aviation.
A Seamless Travel Experience
Traveling on Ethiopian Airlines ensures a seamless travel experience, from booking through to arrival at your destination. The airline’s comprehensive services, including premium cabins, modern in-flight amenities, and a wide range of destination choices, make it an ideal option for travelers looking to explore both European and African cities.
Ethiopian Airlines also offers easy connections through its hub in Addis Ababa, with a streamlined booking process that allows passengers to book multiple legs of their journey on a single ticket. Whether connecting to other destinations in Africa or flying to other international locations, Ethiopian Airlines provides passengers with a smooth and enjoyable journey.
Conclusion: Connecting Two Continents
With the launch of the Lyon-Geneva route in July 2026, Ethiopian Airlines is enhancing its European and African network, making it easier for travelers to explore both continents. The new service opens up exciting opportunities for both leisure and business travelers, offering convenient access to Lyon, Geneva, and more than 65 destinations across Africa. Ethiopian Airlines continues to be a leader in connectivity, expanding its global network and enhancing its presence in Europe, providing travelers with more options and an exceptional flying experience.
