Ethiopian Airlines made an announcement on 8 June regarding a change in its Board of Directors. General Yilma Merdessa was named as a replacement for Girma Wake, who had been a member of the Board since January 2021. Girma Wake, a veteran of the airline industry in Africa, had a long and distinguished career with Ethiopian Airlines, joining the company in 1965 and serving in various roles.

Girma Wake had been the Chairman of the Board of Directors since March 2022. His departure from the position was not accompanied by specific reasons from the airline, leaving the circumstances surrounding his departure unclear.

Girma Wake is widely recognized as an influential figure in the African aviation sector. He previously served as the Chief Executive Officer (CEO) of Ethiopian Airlines from 2004 to 2011, a period marked by significant growth and development for the airline. Following his tenure at Ethiopian Airlines, he took on the role of Chairman of the Board of RwandAir, the national airline of Rwanda, from 2012 to 2017. In December 2018, Girma Wake was called back to the Board of Directors of Ethiopian Airlines.

Ethiopian Airlines expressed deep appreciation for Girma Wake's substantial contributions to the growth and success of the airline group. They acknowledged his significant impact and emphasized that he would hold a special place in the company's history.

General Yilma Merdessa, who assumed the position on the Board, has been in command of the Ethiopian Air Force since 21 June 2018. His appointment to the Board was made by Prime Minister Abiy Ahmed approximately two months after he assumed office.

Established in 1945, Ethiopian Airlines is a national airline wholly owned by the Ethiopian government. It boasts a fleet of 144 aircraft and operates flights to 131 destinations. In the 2021-2022 financial year, the airline reported carrying 8.6 million passengers, solidifying its position as the leading airline in all sectors across the African continent. Moreover, Ethiopian Airlines achieved a profit of 937 million dollars during the same financial year, highlighting its financial success.