ASKY has announced the return to service of its Boeing 737 aircraft ET-BBB, following a comprehensive heavy maintenance and structural repair programme completed by Ethiopian MRO. The aircraft had sustained structural damage during an incident at Niamey International Airport on 29 January 2026. The successful completion of the repair programme marks a significant milestone for ASKY.
The restoration of ET-BBB required extensive heavy maintenance and structural repair work, demanding high levels of engineering precision and adherence to aviation safety standards. Ethiopian MRO's skilled maintenance teams played a crucial role in the repair process, working closely with ASKY and other partners, including Boeing and other OEMs.
ASKY's CEO, Esayas Hailu, expressed his appreciation for the professionalism and technical expertise of Ethiopian MRO's maintenance teams. He also recognised the contributions of all teams involved in the aircraft's recovery, maintenance, and return to service. The safe return of ET-BBB is a testament to the dedication and technical excellence of ASKY's teams and partners.
The return of ET-BBB to ASKY's fleet reinforces the airline's commitment to operational resilience and safety as it continues to expand its network across Africa. ASKY operates as a commercial enterprise governed by private law, with a business ethos centred on sustainability and profitability. The airline is supported by leading regional financial institutions and benefits from a strategic technical partnership with Ethiopian Airlines.
ASKY serves 30 cities across 28 African countries with a 17-aircraft fleet, managed by African aviation professionals. The airline's shareholding is held by EBID, BOAD, ECOBANK Group, Ethiopian Airlines, and the Government of Togo. ASKY's partnership with Ethiopian Airlines provides access to world-class operational expertise.
The successful return of ET-BBB to service demonstrates ASKY's commitment to maintaining the highest standards of safety, operational reliability, and technical excellence. The airline's achievement reflects its dedication to providing reliable and safe air travel services across Africa. ASKY's growth and expansion plans are expected to continue, driven by its focus on sustainability and profitability.
Aviation correspondent Ifeoma Okeke-Korieocha reported on the story, highlighting ASKY's achievement and the role of Ethiopian MRO in the repair programme. BusinessDay Media Limited, publishers of BusinessDay Newspapers, covers a wide range of topics, including aviation and business issues. Ifeoma Okeke-Korieocha has received several nominations and awards for her work in aviation journalism.
Key points
- ASKY's Boeing 737 aircraft ET-BBB returns to service after extensive repairs by Ethiopian MRO.
- The aircraft had sustained structural damage during an incident at Niamey International Airport on 29 January 2026.
- ASKY's CEO, Esayas Hailu, expressed his appreciation for the professionalism and technical expertise of Ethiopian MRO's maintenance teams.
