On Wednesday morning, fighters from the Tigray People’s Liberation Front (TPLF) entered the Mekelle airport in northern Ethiopia, effectively ending federal control of the facility. In response, Ethiopian Airlines announced the immediate suspension of all flights to Mekelle, as well as to the historic cities of Axum and Shire, citing “the current situation” without providing further detail.
Background to the airport takeover
The regional government of Tigray issued a statement saying its forces were acting in a “defensive war” after federal troops launched drone strikes and heavy artillery attacks on the region on Tuesday. The African Union Commission chair, Mahmoud Ali Youssouf, called for restraint and rapid de‑escalation, warning that the occupation of the airport could destabilize the fragile peace achieved in the 2022 agreement.
According to a taxi driver who witnessed the event, the airport—normally staffed by federal personnel—was occupied by TPLF fighters carrying only light arms. The driver, who asked to remain anonymous for safety reasons, said a commander ordered him to leave the premises and assured him that no further flights would land. No gunfire was reported, and the takeover appeared to be peaceful.
Impact on travel and commerce
Ethiopian Airlines, the state‑owned carrier, is the only scheduled airline serving the region. With the suspension, travelers must rely on chartered flights, which are limited and more expensive. The airline’s decision underscores the broader challenges of maintaining civil aviation services in conflict‑affected areas.
While no other commercial airlines operate to Tigray, the airport remains a critical hub for humanitarian aid and regional trade. The suspension may hinder relief efforts and disrupt the movement of goods, adding pressure on already strained local economies.
Political context
The airport seizure comes three days after seven opposition groups, including the TPLF, announced a coalition—named the Ethiopian Peoples’ Forces Alliance for Survival—aimed at removing Prime Minister Abiy Ahmed and his Prosperity Party from power. The party retained a parliamentary majority in a June election that was largely boycotted by major opposition parties.
Former Tigray peace negotiator Getachew Reda, now an adviser to Prime Minister Ahmed, accused the TPLF of recent attacks in the Afar and Amhara regions, calling the airport takeover an “irresponsibility to new heights.” He reiterated the federal government’s commitment to protect the nation’s territorial integrity.
International reaction
The African Union’s chair emphasized the risk of reversing gains made under the 2022 peace accord, urging all parties to pursue dialogue and avoid actions that could reignite large‑scale hostilities. The AU’s call for de‑escalation reflects broader regional concerns about the spill‑over effects of renewed fighting in Ethiopia’s north.
For now, Ethiopian Airlines has not indicated a timeline for resuming service to Mekelle, Axum or Shire. Travelers and businesses are advised to monitor official airline communications and consider alternative transport options while the security situation remains fluid.
Original reporting: Alexandria, VA News – WTOP News — read the source article.
