Middle East Tensions Hit Aviation as Ethiopian Airlines Flags Fuel Shortages, Passenger Disruptions

Africa’s largest carrier, Ethiopian Airlines, says the ongoing Middle East crisis is disrupting global aviation, citing jet fuel shortages and passengers stranded in different countries.

The conflict intensified on February 28, 2026, when Israel and the United States launched strikes on Iran, triggering wider regional instability.

Addressing journalists in Lagos during the airline’s 80th anniversary, its Nigeria General Manager, Firiehiwot Mekonnen, described the situation as a worldwide challenge.

“It is affecting the whole world. It is a global issue. It is not only for Africa or for the Middle East. It is a global issue, both in terms of fuel supply and also passengers being inconvenienced and being stuck or stranded in one country, not able to go back to their country,” she said.

Mekonnen, however, highlighted continued growth in Nigeria, noting that weekly passenger flights have risen from 24 to 38 since last July, with over 50 cargo flights operating regularly.

“Operations in Nigeria have grown. Nigeria is a big market… The operation in Nigeria is really big,” she said.

She explained that apart from infrastructure limitations, the airline has faced minimal operational challenges in Nigeria, with no major currency issues.

On competition, she credited Ethiopian Airlines’ modern fleet and service quality.
“When it comes to price, we are competitive… the advantage that we get is the product type and the customer service experience that we have,” she said.

The airline also reiterated its commitment to assisting passengers affected by disruptions.
“As Ethiopian Airlines, we try to be there for our passengers. Whenever the airspaces are opened, we try to be there so that we can do relief evacuation flights, depending on the situation,” Mekonnen added.

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