Security

Ethiopian Airlines Staff Stranded in Tigray Following Flight Suspensions

AI SUMMARY

Ethiopian Airlines staff remain stranded in Tigray after flights to three regional airports were suspended due to deteriorating security conditions.

Ethiopian Airlines suspended operations to Mekelle, Axum, and Shire airports starting Wednesday, September 23, due to deteriorating security.
Airline personnel stationed in Tigray remain in the region as no formal evacuation arrangements have been initiated by the flag carrier.
A senior Ethiopian Airlines executive confirmed that no specific evacuation plans are in place and employees have not formally requested relocation.
Tigrayan forces occupied Alula Aba Nega Airport, Shire Airport, and Axum Airport, forcing a total suspension of commercial flights according to the Ethiopian Human Rights Commission.
African Union Commission Chairperson Mahmoud Ali Youssouf expressed deep concern over expanding military movements and the detention of federal employees by TPLF-aligned forces.
Overland transport corridors connecting Tigray to the rest of the country have halted, causing basic commodity shortages and price inflation.
Active military clashes have been reported between federal security forces and TPLF fighters in parts of Wag Hemra Zone and Lasta Woreda.