According to a statement released by the airline, the decision follows agreements reached in Asmara between H.E. Dr. Abiy Ahmed, Prime Minister of the Federal Democratic Republic of Ethiopia and President H.E. Isaias Afewerki of the State of Eritrea.

The flights will be operated per the following schedule:

Flights will depart Addis Ababa at 09h00, arriving in Asmara at 10h10. The return service will depart Asmara at 11h00, arriving in Addis Ababa at 12h10.

Group CEO, Ethiopian Airlines, Tewolde GebreMariam said:

“We at Ethiopian feel an immense honor and joy to resume scheduled flights to Asmara after 20 years, following the visit to Eritrea by H.E. Dr. Abiy Ahmed, Prime Minister of the Federal Democratic Republic of Ethiopia. With the opening of a new chapter of peace and friendship between the two sisterly countries, we look forward to starting flights to Asmara with the B787, the most technologically advanced commercial aircraft, which gives customers unparalleled on-board comfort.

The resumption of air links will play a critical role in boosting the overall political, economic, trade and people-to-people ties between the two sisterly countries.

At a state dinner for a visiting Eritrean delegation, Ethiopia’s Prime Minister Abiy Ahmed said: “Artists, prepare yourselves since we will celebrate the (Ethiopian) New Year (on September 11) in both Asmara and Addis Ababa,” he said on Tuesday.

“For Ethiopians who have longed for heading to Massawa (in Eritrea) for a stroll, I call on you to be ready as Ethiopian Airlines will start services there soon.”

As part of a series of reforms announced by Abiy since coming to power in April, shares in Ethiopian Airlines will be sold as part of a privatisation programme which will see the state maintain a majority stake.