Ethiopian Airlines, one of Africa's leading airlines, will launch a direct air route linking Addis Ababa, the capital city of Ethiopia, to Hanoi.

Initially, the airlines will operate four weekly flights on the route, starting from July 10.

The new service provide one more travel option for passengers travelling between Africa and Southeast Asia.

Ethiopian Airlines Group CEO Mesfin Tasew  expressed his pleasure to expand presence in Southeast Asia and enhance air connectivity for customers in the region.

"This new route will create opportunities for stronger ties and collaborations between Vietnam and our extensive global network. We look forward to bringing our renowned service to Vietnam and further growing our presence in this dynamic market", he was quoted by the Government News as saying.

According to the Vietnam National Authority of Tourism, the number of visitors from Africa remains limited, but recorded the strong growth in 2024, with a rise of 169.1 per cent year-on-year, standing at 50,906.

In the first two months of this year, Vietnam welcomed 9,201 visitors from Africa, a year-on-year increase of 212 per cent.