Good evening, friends,
This is my choice of the Ethiopian flag. I fully respect that some of you may prefer a different version, and I encourage everyone to share their own choice with us. Our differences of opinion should never prevent us from appreciating the extraordinary history and heritage of our beloved Ethiopia.
As a pilot, I have always felt a special sense of pride whenever I see the golden Lion of Judah — Mo'a Anbessa Ze-Imnegede Yehuda — displayed on Ethiopian aircraft. To me, it represents much more than an emblem. It carries a powerful connection to Ethiopia's history, sovereignty, and aviation heritage.
The Story in Brief
The Lion of Judah is one of Ethiopia's most historic national symbols. For generations, it was closely associated with the Ethiopian monarchy and the Solomonic tradition.
When Ethiopian Airlines was established in 1945 during the reign of Emperor Haile Selassie I, it became an important part of Ethiopia's modernization and its effort to connect the country with the rest of the world.
The airline's early identity reflected Ethiopia's national colors and historic symbols. The golden Lion of Judah, carrying a cross-topped staff and Ethiopian banner, became closely associated with the country's imperial era and its long tradition of independence.
The Lion represented courage, sovereignty, leadership, resilience, and Ethiopian national pride. It also became internationally recognizable during a period when Ethiopia was asserting its place in African and global affairs.
During the 1960s and 1970s, Ethiopian Airlines aircraft also became famous for displaying the image of the black-maned Ethiopian lion, an animal uniquely associated with Ethiopia, prominently on the tails of aircraft such as the Boeing 707.
Why the Lion Still Matters
Following the fall of Emperor Haile Selassie's government in 1974, Ethiopia entered a dramatically different political era, and many symbols associated with the monarchy were removed from official use.
Ethiopian Airlines also modernized its visual identity over the years. Today, its familiar green, yellow, and red colors continue to proudly represent Ethiopia wherever its aircraft fly.
Yet the lion has never completely disappeared from Ethiopia's aviation heritage. It continues to appear in historical photographs, commemorative designs, heritage liveries, and other references to the airline's remarkable history.
For me, therefore, the Golden Lion of Judah is not simply about monarchy or politics. It represents a much larger historical inheritance — Ethiopia's ancient civilization, independence, courage, dignity, and continuity through generations.
People may choose different Ethiopian flags and interpret our history differently. That is their right, and I respect it.
But this is the flag and historic symbol that speaks most strongly to me.
As an Ethiopian and as a pilot, seeing that magnificent golden lion associated with an Ethiopian aircraft gives me tremendous pride. It reminds me that long before many African nations had their own international airlines, Ethiopia was already carrying its colors, its identity, and its name across the skies of the world.
The governments of Ethiopia have changed. Political systems have changed. Generations have changed. But Ethiopia remains.
May we honor our history, learn from it, and allow our different views of that history to bring thoughtful discussion rather than division.
Long live Ethiopia — our shared and beloved nation. 🇪🇹
August 27, 2026 324 1
