Ethiopian Airlines
Airlines Reviews
Ethiopian Airlines Reviews & Ratings: Is It the Right Airline for You?
Ethiopian Airlines is the undisputed giant of African aviation. As the continent’s largest and most profitable airline, it connects almost every corner of Africa with North and South America, Europe, the Middle East, and Asia.
In 2026, Ethiopian Airlines is expanding at a breakneck pace. Alongside taking delivery of modern Airbus A350s and Boeing 787 Dreamliners, the airline is heavily involved in the construction of a brand-new mega-airport outside of Addis Ababa, designed to eventually handle 100 million passengers a year.
Ethiopian Airlines at a Glance
In-Flight Experience: What to Expect Onboard
Despite being highly cost-competitive, Ethiopian Airlines operates a full-service legacy model.
Economy Class
The Economy cabin on their wide-body aircraft (A350s and B787s) is modern, featuring seatback entertainment screens and USB power. Ethiopian is known for its hearty complimentary catering; passengers are often offered a choice between a standard international meal (like chicken and pasta) or a traditional Ethiopian dish (like injera with wot). All drinks, including Ethiopian coffee and alcohol, are free.
Cloud Nine (Business Class)
Ethiopian’s Business Class is branded as “Cloud Nine.” On the newer wide-body fleet, passengers enjoy fully lie-flat seats in a 1-2-1 configuration, providing direct aisle access. The hospitality is incredibly warm, often featuring a traditional Ethiopian coffee ceremony performed in the cabin. (Note: Older Boeing 777s may still feature an older 2-2-2 angled-flat layout, so check your aircraft type).
Ethiopian Airlines Baggage Allowance & Policies
Ethiopian Airlines offers some of the most generous free baggage allowances of any global airline, heavily utilizing the piece concept to accommodate passengers bringing goods to and from the continent.
| Cabin Class | Carry-On Allowance | Checked Baggage (Most International Routes) | Checked Baggage (Within Africa) |
| Economy | 1 piece (Up to 7kg) + personal item | 2 pieces (Up to 23kg each) | Varies: Often 2 pieces (23kg) |
| Cloud Nine (Business) | 2 pieces (Up to 7kg each) | 2 pieces (Up to 32kg each) | 2 pieces (Up to 32kg each) |
| ShebaMiles Gold / Star Gold | +1 extra carry-on | +1 extra checked bag (23kg or 32kg) | +1 extra checked bag |
Hub Transit Note: Bole International Airport (ADD) is currently operating at maximum capacity. During the midnight transfer bank, security lines and terminals can be incredibly crowded.
Customer Service & Reliability
Pros & Cons of Flying with Ethiopian Airlines
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Have You Flown with Ethiopian Airlines?
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs) About Ethiopian Airlines
How many bags are allowed on Ethiopian Airlines?
On most intercontinental flights (including to the US and Europe), Economy passengers are allowed two checked bags up to 23kg (50 lbs) each, completely free. Cloud Nine (Business) passengers can take two bags up to 32kg (70 lbs) each.
Is alcohol free on Ethiopian Airlines?
Yes. Ethiopian Airlines provides a complimentary beverage service in all classes, which includes soft drinks, tea, famous Ethiopian coffee, wine, beer, and spirits.
Is Cloud Nine Business Class lie-flat?
On their modern Airbus A350 and Boeing 787 fleets, yes, Cloud Nine features fully lie-flat beds. However, if you are flying on their older Boeing 777s or regional Boeing 737s, the seats may only be standard recliners or angled-flat.
Disclaimer: All information, policies, and details presented on this page are gathered from publicly available resources and are subject to change. Please verify directly with the airline before booking.