Ethiopian Airlines and Bridgestone launch co-creation initiative to enhance aircraft safety and operational efficiency
Bridgestone Corporation has announced the launch of a unique co-creation initiative with Ethiopian Airlines Group, Africa’s largest airline, and Ethiopian Airports at Addis Ababa Bole International Airport, aimed at reducing Foreign Object Debris (FOD) on airport surfaces and enhancing safe aircraft operations with greater reliability and peace of mind.
The collaboration marks the first time Bridgestone has worked on an ongoing basis with both an airline and an airport authority as part of a shared operational safety programme. Managing FOD is critical to aviation safety, as debris on runways and taxiways can cause aircraft tire damage and disrupt flight schedules. At Bole International Airport, FOD-related tire issues had previously highlighted the need for improved mitigation measures to enhance operational efficiency.
Drawing on its global expertise, Bridgestone utilised its system for inspecting and analysing used aircraft tires returned by airline customers. The company leveraged accumulated, airline-specific FOD data to assess conditions at Bole International Airport and develop tailored solutions in collaboration with Ethiopian Airlines and Ethiopian Airports. These efforts included data-driven analysis of FOD distribution, the creation of hazard maps, recommendations for more efficient debris collection, and awareness programmes to highlight the operational impact of FOD.
As a result of the sustained collaboration, the incidence of aircraft tire issues caused by FOD has fallen significantly compared to pre-initiative levels. This has contributed to improved on-time performance, enhanced safety, and greater operational reliability for Ethiopian Airlines. The initiative has also supported productivity, economic value, and sustainability through increased use of retreaded tires, reinforcing circular economy principles in aviation operations.
Both partners have confirmed plans to further expand the co-creation activities, with the aim of delivering long-term value for the aviation sector and contributing to broader industry and societal development.
Commenting on the initiative, Retta Melaku, Chief Operating Officer of Ethiopian Airlines, said safety remains the airline’s top priority and that the collaboration with Bridgestone has strengthened efforts to reduce FOD and ensure safe operations at its main hub.
Getaneh Adera, Managing Director of Ethiopian Airports, highlighted that the reduction in FOD reflects the airport’s commitment to the highest safety standards, achieved through close collaboration and shared responsibility.
Jean-Philippe Minet, Managing Director of Bridgestone Aircraft Tire (Europe) S.A., said the project demonstrates how combining operational insights with advanced analysis technology can deliver customised solutions that improve safety, productivity, and trust, while creating new value from data.
The initiative aligns with Bridgestone’s “E8 Commitment,” particularly its focus on efficiency and extension, underscoring the company’s broader strategy to deliver social and customer value through co-creation and sustainable mobility solutions.
