Eritrean authorities have suspended all Ethiopian Airlines flights to their airspace, effective September 30.
In a letter circulating online, purportedly from the Eritrean Civil Aviation Authority, the airline is accused of “consistent and persistent malicious trading practices, systemic and organized passengers’ luggage theft, pilferage, damage, prolonged delays, and loss with no compensation, along with unjustified and unwarranted price hikes and other irregularities.”
Ethiopian Airlines confirmed receiving notice from Eritrean officials and stated they are seeking clarification, adding they are “committed to resolving any issues amicably and promptly.”
The Eritreans say the suspension follows repeated calls for the airline to address the cited issues.
Travelers planning to fly with Ethiopian Airlines to Eritrea are advised to adjust their plans.
Turkish, Saudi, and Egyptian airlines continue to operate regular flights to Eritrea.
Ethiopian Airlines resumed flights to Asmara in July 2018, following the normalization of relations between the two countries.
The state-owned airline is ranked the largest in Africa by revenue and profit, according to the International Air Transport Association, and leads the continent in fleet size and passenger numbers.
