MEKELLE, Ethiopia — Tigrayan peoples Libration front (TPLF) forces have taken control of Alula Aba Nega International Airport in Mekelle, the regional capital of Tigray, after detaining federal police officers tasked with securing the facility. Airport operations have been halted, and staff were instructed to return home as tensions escalate between the Tigray People’s Liberation Front (TPLF) and the federal government.
In response to the security developments, national carrier Ethiopian Airlines announced the immediate and temporary suspension of all scheduled flights connecting Addis Ababa to key destinations in the region, including Mekelle, Shire, and Axum, effective September 23, 2026.
In an official statement, Ethiopian Airlines cited the current security situation in the region for the disruption:
“Due to the current situation in the Tigray region, Ethiopian Airlines has temporarily suspended its flights to Mekelle, Axum, and Shire effective today, September 23, 2026. We apologize to our valued customers for any inconvenience caused by these disruptions. We respectfully inform our passengers that updates will be provided as soon as flight operations resume.”
The situation at the airport remains fluid as local and regional authorities monitor the developing security conditions in northern Ethiopia.
