Ethiopian War/ Ethiopian Airways

[Tokoloshe Safaris]

Most of our visiting hunters from the U.S.A. fly into Victoria Falls on Ethiopian Airways. So far all have been satisfied with the airline. My Question is this Ethiopia seems to be in a very perilous state at the moment. If the rebels continue to take the country will the airline continue to fly?

 

[WilhelmM]

Can't they just use a different airline? Genuine question here, no arrogance in any way.

 

[Tanks]

I know Ethiopian Airways have come through for a multitude of hunters traveling to Africa when all the other airlines had canceled flights.

That being said, their unreasonable firearms policy, quality of service etc. has soured many hunters from flying with them ever again.

When people are desperate and have no other choice then people will put up with a lot, however that is not the case anymore and there are many other and better options.

In regards to the rebels, that is just another reason to avoid this airline.

 

[slam8031]

I flew into and out of Namibia on Ethiopian on Nov 4 and out on Nov 8— used the outfitter’s rifle (I was scheduled longer but had great early success!). They were the fastest way to Namibia for me. They changed my ticket as needed. I didn’t take a rifle for the issues they have. Airport was safe and efficient. I would fly again if needed but the unrest is growing. The return trip was filled with family of us embassy personnel .

 

[MMAL]

I flew on EA last Oct. The flight, staff and transfer were great. I did fly will guns and did not find their policy to be unreasonable, not sure what Tanks is referring to. The gun inspection in Ethiopia was unique but not a big issue. Certainly easier than transferring in JoBurg. The war and rebels on the other hand are presenting problems but I would defer to the airline in that respect. I would fly them again.

 

[gizmo]

I’m with @MMAL with this one. I found them to be quite adequate. The Gun inspection thing I found quite comical. It wasn’t a big deal and I was happy I got to physically see my gun and make sure it was ok at the half way point as well as watch them put it on the next plane so it didn’t bother me. It was pretty awkward at first but I didn’t mind it, very painless anyway.
If I were to fly again during the present turmoil I’d have to watch the events closely leading up to my trip and make a decision based on as current of events as possible.

 

[Tokoloshe Safaris]

Most of our visiting hunter are now using our rifles. Yes there are other airlines, but the most economical and easiest way to vic falls is Ethiopian Airways. My question does anyone know the current situation in Ethiopia and is there a good chance that the airline which is either govt owned or funded might close in the near future?

 

[Mountaineer]

I sure hope they don’t close. I recently flew with them. I couldn’t have asked for better. I’m a simple guy. Get me there safely and speak to me kindly then we are all good.

 

[Vashper]

And how do you usually get to Ethiopia from the USA? Through Cairo?

 

[375Fox]

And how do you usually get to Ethiopia from the USA? Through Cairo?

Direct flight from Washington DC

 

[Philip Glass]

Most of our visiting hunter are now using our rifles. Yes there are other airlines, but the most economical and easiest way to vic falls is Ethiopian Airways. My question does anyone know the current situation in Ethiopia and is there a good chance that the airline which is either govt owned or funded might close in the near future?

They are the fourth largest airline as far as countries serviced. I don’t know anything about the situation in the country but the airline is good.