Ethiopian Airlines is expanding its Mozambique network by adding Nacala as its third destination, operating three flights per week using Boeing 737-8 aircraft starting October 27, 2026. The new route connects the northern port city via Malawi, bolstering trade, tourism, and regional connectivity across the continent.
Route Expansion and Schedule Details for Nacala
Ethiopian Airlines is deepening its footprint in Mozambique with the introduction of passenger services to the northern trade and tourism hub of Nacala. Beginning October 27, 2026, the Addis Ababa-based carrier will operate three flights per week to the coastal city, making it the airline’s third destination in the country alongside Maputo and Beira.
The flights will run on Tuesdays, Thursdays, and Saturdays utilizing Boeing 737-8 aircraft. According to flight schedule disclosures, the outbound service departs Addis Ababa at 09:20, routes through Blantyre, Malawi, and then continues onward to Nacala. The return flight leaves Nacala at 15:10, touching down in Addis Ababa at 20:05.
Strategic Vision Behind the New Mozambican Link
Airline executives framed the expansion as a vital step in bridging transport divides across Africa. Nacala serves as an important center for commerce, offering vital economic and diplomatic connectivity in northern Mozambique.
“As a pan-African airline, expanding our presence in Mozambique with a third destination is truly a proud moment for us.”
Mesfin Tasew, Ethiopian Airlines Group CEO
Group CEO Mr. Mesfin Tasew emphasized that the new connection will further strengthen the relationship between the people of Mozambique and Ethiopia. He noted that the carrier intends to bring its award-winning customer service directly to Nacala, linking local travelers to a global network spanning more than 160 passenger and cargo destinations across five continents.
Broader African Growth and Network Strategy
The addition of Nacala builds upon Ethiopian Airlines’ multi-hub strategy and ongoing expansion across the continent. The carrier currently serves more than 65 destinations within Africa, relying on a diverse fleet of Boeing and Airbus aircraft, including modern Boeing 737, 777, and 787 models, alongside Airbus A350s and De Havilland Q400s.
This regional growth aligns with efforts to facilitate business, cultural exchange, and economic integration. By weaving northern Mozambican cities into a broader multinational web—which includes partner operations in Togo, Malawi, Zambia, and the Democratic Republic of the Congo—the carrier continues to position itself as a central pillar of African aviation connectivity.
Earlier developments in Mozambique’s aviation sector also highlighted shifting market dynamics following the liberalization of the national airspace. Emanuel Chaves, president of Aeroportos de Moçambique, previously announced plans regarding domestic operations under the designation Ethiopian Mozambique Airlines, following a decree by the Mozambican government aimed at making air transport more competitive. While state carrier Linhas Aéreas de Moçambique (LAM) historically held a domestic monopoly until 2017, rule changes opened the door to other operators amid management and punctuality challenges. While union committees previously voiced concerns to authorities regarding subsidiary domestic operations, airline administrations noted that competition remains welcome as carriers expand their presence across Maputo, Nampula, Beira, Tete, Pemba, Quelimane, and Nacala.
