The Ethiopian Blueprint: CEO Mesfin Tasew on $12.5B New Airport and Why Other African Airlines Fail episode artwork

EPISODE · Jan 19, 2026 · 37 MIN

The Ethiopian Blueprint: CEO Mesfin Tasew on $12.5B New Airport and Why Other African Airlines Fail

from Africa Here and NOW

Ethiopian Airlines, Mesfin Tasew, aviation leadership, African aviation, airline strategy, Vision 2040, infrastructure investment, MRO Services, airline culture, career achievements In this conversation, Mesfin Tasew, CEO of Ethiopian Airlines, shares his extensive journey within the airline, highlighting the importance of leadership, strategic vision and a strong corporate culture in achieving success. He discusses the ambitious Vision 2040 for Ethiopian Airlines, the challenges faced by African aviation, and the critical investments in infrastructure and human capital necessary for future growth. Mesfin reflects on his more than 40 year career at Ethiopian Airlines, his achievements and the spirit of collaboration that has driven the airline's success.Takeaways*Mesfin Tasew has over 40 years of experience at Ethiopian Airlines*Leadership succession from within has been key to the airline's success*Ethiopian Airlines has a strong corporate culture that motivates employees*The airline's Vision 2040 aims to significantly increase passenger and cargo transport*Investment in infrastructure is crucial for the airline's growth*Ethiopian Airlines has operational autonomy, allowing for strategic decision-making without political interference*Challenges in African aviation include high operational costs and lack of cooperation among airlines* The new Bishoftu International Airport is a major investment for future growth* Training and developing internal talent is a key priority for Ethiopian Airlines* Mesfin reflects on a fulfilling career and the collaborative achievements of the airline.Chapters:00.00 Journey of a Leader: Mesfin Tasew's Background09:59 Ethiopian Airlines: A successful model19.47 Vision 2040: ambitious Goals for Ethiopian Airlines29.56 Challenges in African Aviation: A Broader Perspective36.11 Reflections on a Career: Achievements and Legacy Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

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The Ethiopian Blueprint: CEO Mesfin Tasew on $12.5B New Airport and Why Other African Airlines Fail

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