Ethiopian Airlines Launches New International Route, Boosting Lyon’s Economic Appeal
Lyon, January 8, 2026 – Lyon Saint-Exupéry Airport is set to embark on a new phase of international development. Ethiopian Airlines, Africa’s premier airline, has announced the launch of a new regular service from July 2026, linking Addis Ababa to Geneva and Lyon. The route will operate three times a week, marking a significant strategic announcement that further positions Lyon as an economic hub connected to major international markets.
Direct Connection Between Lyon and Growing Africa
This new route establishes a direct link between Lyon and one of the African continent’s primary air hubs. Addis Ababa serves as a major platform for connections to East, West, and Southern Africa, as well as the Middle East and Asia. For businesses in the Auvergne-Rhône-Alpes region, this connection offers a concrete opportunity to strengthen commercial, industrial, and institutional exchanges with rapidly expanding markets.
A Lever for Regional Business Attractiveness
The direct service by Ethiopian Airlines addresses the increasing needs of regional economic players. Numerous sectors in Auvergne-Rhône-Alpes, including industry, energy, infrastructure, agribusiness, engineering, and services, already maintain ties with the African continent. This new air connection facilitates professional travel, reduces travel times, and enhances the international competitiveness of companies based in the region.
Lyon Saint-Exupéry Confirms its Role as an International Gateway
The arrival of a leading airline like Ethiopian Airlines testifies to the dynamism of Lyon Airport and its appeal to major global air transport players. Lyon Saint-Exupéry is thus asserting itself as a strategic access point for economic, tourist, and institutional flows, serving regional development and the international openness of the Lyon metropolitan area.
A Strong Signal for the Influence of Auvergne-Rhône-Alpes
Beyond air transport, this new route embodies the region’s international ambition. It contributes to strengthening the image of a connected, open region capable of attracting leading economic partners. By directly linking Lyon to Africa via a major hub, Ethiopian Airlines participates in the influence of Auvergne-Rhône-Alpes and supports regional businesses in their international development.
A Dynamic Favorable to Exchanges and Employment
This new connection is also expected to generate positive benefits in terms of employment, business tourism, and local economic activity. It is part of a broader strategy to develop international connections, which is essential for the competitiveness and attractiveness of the region. With this announcement, Lyon confirms its status as a major economic metropolis, connected to the world’s leading growth poles.
