by Francis Ogwo
Africa's frontline airline, Ethiopian Airlines has spread its wings wider than it has been with the launch of its direct flight from Africa to Houston, United States .Thisday reports.
According to the management of the airline ,the epoch making flight would not only improve connectivity between Africa and Houston, but would, according to the Executive Director, Houston Airport, Mario Daiz, contribute about $100 million into the US economy yearly.
“Houston is now officially reconnected to the African continent through the efforts of Ethiopian Airlines to make business seamless for international travelers and others in the corporate world. Through the flight to Houston, Ethiopian Airlines is creating unity among people of diverse groups, promoting culture and strengthening values,” he stated.
The airlines Group Chief Executive Officer, Mr. Tewolde GebreMariam while Speaking at the launch of the inaugural flight at the George Bush International Airport, Houston, , said the airline would operate three frequencies weekly from Lome, Togo, to Houston using the Boeing 787 Dreamliner.
He said with direct flight services to Houston from Lome, Ethiopian Airlines has been able to connect Houston to the entire continent of Africa, Middle East and Asia, adding that the launch makes the airlines 127th destination in the world.
He explained that the connections have been designed in such a way that it will be one of the most direct and fastest routes for Africa, Middle East and Asia, saying Houston is the fifth gateway in North America and the fourth in US next to Washington, New York and Chicago.