Faith Nyasuguta
Ethiopian Airlines, Africa’s largest carrier, has taken delivery of two brand-new Twin Otter Classic 300-G aircraft from De Havilland Canada, a move set to transform regional connectivity across the Horn of Africa. The announcement was made on June 17, 2025, at the Paris Air Show, showcasing the airline’s commitment to expanding access to hard-to-reach destinations while bolstering tourism and socio-economic growth.
The Twin Otter Classic 300-Gs are celebrated for their legendary short take-off and landing (STOL) capability, making them ideal for navigating rugged terrain and smaller runways. What sets these latest models apart is their optional amphibious landing gear, which enables them to operate on both conventional runways and water surfaces. This versatility opens the door to new routes across Ethiopia’s vast and often challenging landscape, including remote lake regions that were previously inaccessible by air.
“By introducing these unique aircraft into our fleet, we aim to bridge the gap between major cities and underserved regions, stimulating economic development and tourism in the process,” the airline said in a statement.
Ethiopia, known for its dramatic highlands, historic sites, and sprawling lakes, has long faced logistical challenges in connecting isolated communities. The new Twin Otters are expected to improve accessibility to areas that have lacked reliable air service, creating opportunities for trade, healthcare delivery, and adventure travel.
The purchase also marks another milestone in Ethiopian Airlines’ ongoing fleet expansion. Already recognized as Africa’s leading airline by revenue, profit, fleet size, and passengers carried, the carrier serves more than 160 destinations across five continents. For several consecutive years, it has been named “Best Airline in Africa” by Skytrax, a testament to its operational excellence and customer service.
The signing ceremony at the Paris Air Show was symbolic of the airline’s forward-looking strategy, highlighting its intent to diversify its fleet to meet both international and domestic needs. The addition of amphibious-capable aircraft reflects Ethiopian Airlines’ reputation as an industry pioneer on the continent, often leading the way with innovations that reshape African aviation.
With these Twin Otter Classic 300-Gs, Ethiopian Airlines is poised not only to strengthen its domestic operations but also to redefine regional air travel, offering passengers greater access, flexibility, and convenience across Ethiopia’s most remote and scenic destinations.
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