Ethiopia’s Aksum Airport, a symbol of rebirth and hope, reopened on June 9, 2024, welcoming commercial flights again after a closure of more than three and a half years due to the devastating civil war the Tigray region. Located in the heart of this historic area, Yohannes IV airport is now the focal point of many eyes looking to the future.
The turbulent history of this airport reflects the tumults that shook Tigray, a region with a rich cultural heritage. After being the scene of violent clashes between federal forces and Tigrayan groups, Aksum regained peace thanks to the Pretoria Agreement of November 2022, paving the way for a period of reconstruction and renewal.
The reopening of Aksum airport marks a new chapter in the history of the region. A symbol of economic recovery and normalization, this crucial step facilitates the return to a more peaceful daily life for the inhabitants of Tigray. By restoring air links, the airport also helps to revive the tourism sector, essential for the local economy and the promotion of the region’s rich cultural heritage.
The city of Aksum, listed as a UNESCO World Heritage Site, contains unique historical and cultural treasures, witnesses of a thousand-year-old civilization. Its majestic obelisk and the remains of the ancient civilization that flourished in the region between the 1st and 6th centuries attract visitors from all over the world every year in search of discovery and authenticity.
By reopening its doors, Aksum Airport is paving the way for new horizons, testifying to the resilience and determination of the Ethiopian people to overcome challenges and build a better future. As planes take flight again over the ancient lands of Tigray, a new breath of hope animates the region, carrying promises of peace, prosperity and renewal.