1. Baggage Policy
Checked Baggage Allowance
Ethiopian Airlines’ free checked baggage allowance varies based on the route and class of service:
Economy Class: 2 pieces, each weighing up to 23 kg (50 lbs)
Business Class (Cloud Nine): 2 pieces, each weighing up to 32 kg (70 lbs)
Passengers are encouraged to check their ticket or visit the airline’s website for specific route-based allowances.
Carry-On Baggage Allowance
Passengers are allowed:
Economy Class: 1 piece of carry-on luggage (max. 7 kg or 15 lbs)
Business Class: 2 pieces of carry-on luggage (each max. 7 kg)
One personal item (laptop, handbag, or briefcase) is also allowed.
Excess Baggage Fees
Excess baggage is charged based on the weight and destination. Fees vary by region and are typically calculated per kilogram or per piece.

2. Unaccompanied Minor Policy
Ethiopian Airlines offers assistance for minors traveling alone:
Ages 5-11: Mandatory unaccompanied minor service.
Ages 12-17: Optional service available upon request.
The service includes supervised assistance from check-in to pick-up at the destination. Parents/guardians must complete the necessary paperwork, including contact details of the receiving party.

3. Cancellation and Refund Policy
Ethiopian Airlines has a structured cancellation policy depending on fare type and timing:
Non-refundable Tickets: Only taxes are refunded.
Refundable Tickets: Refunds are available, usually minus a cancellation fee.
Refunds can be requested through the booking portal, customer service, or the travel agent used for the booking.

4. Date Change and Rebooking Policy
Passengers can modify their travel dates under certain conditions:
Change Fees: May apply depending on fare class.
Fare Differences: If the new flight is more expensive, the difference must be paid.
Changes can be made online, via the mobile app, or through customer support.

5. Check-In Policy
Ethiopian Airlines offers several check-in options:
Online Check-In: Opens 36 hours before departure (available for most international and domestic flights).
Airport Check-In: Recommended at least 3 hours before international departures and 2 hours for domestic flights.
Mobile Check-In: Available through the airline’s app for convenience.

6. Visa and Travel Documents
It is the responsibility of the passenger to ensure that they possess all required visas and travel documentation. Ethiopian Airlines provides general information and assistance but does not issue visas.
Transit Visas: Required for layovers in certain countries.
E-Visa: Ethiopia offers an online visa application for many nationalities.

7. Onboard Experience and In-Flight Entertainment
Ethiopian Airlines provides a comfortable in-flight experience:
Cloud Nine (Business Class): Fully reclining seats, gourmet meals, and premium entertainment.
Economy Class: Complimentary meals, drinks, and access to an entertainment system.
In-Flight Entertainment: Available on most medium and long-haul flights via seatback screens or wireless streaming.

8. Pet Policy
Pets can travel under specific guidelines:
In-Cabin: Only small dogs and cats allowed. Carrier dimensions must not exceed 55cm x 40cm x 20cm.
Checked Baggage: Larger pets can travel in the cargo hold under safe and ventilated conditions.
Documentation: Health certificates and vaccination records are required.
Advanced booking for pet travel is strongly advised.

9. Major Routes Covered
Ethiopian Airlines operates an extensive network covering:
Africa: Johannesburg, Nairobi, Lagos, Cairo, Accra, Addis Ababa (hub)
Asia: Mumbai, Delhi, Bangkok, Guangzhou, Hong Kong
Europe: London, Frankfurt, Paris, Rome, Madrid
North America: Washington D.C., Toronto, Chicago, New York
Middle East: Dubai, Tel Aviv, Beirut
Its strategic location in Addis Ababa makes it a vital transit hub for Africa and intercontinental connections.

10. Special Assistance and Accessibility
Ethiopian Airlines ensures accessibility for passengers with special needs:
Wheelchair Assistance: Available upon request.
Visual and Hearing Impairments: Staff are trained to provide support.
Medical Needs: Passengers requiring oxygen or other medical devices must inform the airline at least 48 hours in advance.

11. Travel Insurance and Protection
Optional travel insurance is available at the time of booking, covering:
Trip cancellations or interruptions
Medical emergencies
Baggage delays or losses

12. Involuntary Schedule Changes
In case of delays or cancellations initiated by the airline:
Rebooking: Offered on the next available flight.
Compensation: May be available depending on the route and local regulations.
Accommodation: Provided if overnight stay is required.

13. Loyalty Program – ShebaMiles
Frequent flyers can enroll in ShebaMiles, Ethiopian’s loyalty program:
Earn miles on flights, hotel stays, and car rentals.
Use miles for free tickets, upgrades, and partner rewards.
Elite tiers offer benefits like extra baggage and lounge access.

14. Group Bookings and Corporate Travel
Special fares and benefits are available for group travel (10+ passengers).
Corporate accounts receive flexible terms and potential discounts.

15. COVID-19 Related Policies
Ethiopian Airlines continues to follow international health guidelines:
Mask policies depend on departure/destination requirements.
Disinfection procedures are in place on all aircraft.
Flexible booking options for travelers affected by COVID-19.

Conclusion
Ethiopian Airlines offers an array of passenger-focused policies ensuring safe, comfortable, and flexible travel. Whether you are flying for business or leisure, understanding these policies can enhance your travel experience. Always check the airline’s official website or contact customer support for the most updated and route-specific information.