Ethiopian Airlines has become the largest African carrier by revenue and profit according to the International Air Transport Association’s latest airline ranking – published in the 58th edition of World Air Transport Statistics.

With revenue topping $2.3 billion in 2013, this is the first time Ethiopian Airlines has achieved such a ranking in its 69-year operating history.

According to IATA, Ethiopian now ranks first in Africa and 37th in the world in terms of revenue and first in Africa and 18th in the world in terms of operating profit.

The historical ranking achieved by Ethiopian in 2013 is a testimony to the confidence of its passengers, the soundness of its 15 year strategic roadmap of fast, profitable and sustainable growth, Vision 2025 and the strategic guidance and support of the airline’s board.

Group chief executive Ethiopian Airlines, Tewolde Gebremariam commented: “The year 2013 marks a milestone year in the history of the airline.

“For the first time in our long history, we are number one in Africa in terms of revenue and profit.

“We owe this success, above all else, to the patronage of our esteemed customers, who are choosing to fly with us in ever increasing record numbers.

“I thank them on behalf of the entire Ethiopian Airlines family and pledge to them that we will continue to work hard to earn their confidence.”

Ethiopian Airlines took delivery of its seventh Boeing 787 Dreamliner on May 20th, named Walia Ibex.

Ethiopian was the first in the world (outside Japan) to receive the Dreamliner in August 2012 and is looking forward to taking delivery of a further three in 2014.