Ethiopian Airlines (ET, Addis Ababa International) says it is finalizing plans to commence its first US West Coast flights later next year. The Star Alliance member said in a statement that it is looking to open up Addis Ababa International to Los Angeles International via Dublin International flights beginning in June 2015.

"Ethiopian flights to Dublin and Los Angeles will be operated three times a week with the ultra-modern Boeing B787-8 Dreamliner, which offers unparalleled on-board comfort to passengers. The flights will be the only direct service connecting Africa with Ireland and the West Coast of the United States," it said.

According to Dublin Airport, Ethiopian will be selling both the Dublin-LA segment and the Dublin-Addis Ababa segment separately.

"Ireland has granted Ethiopian what are termed fifth freedom rights, which enable the airline to sell tickets on all sectors of the new Addis Ababa to Los Angeles route. The Dublin-Addis flight will connect with Ethiopian’s extensive African network," it said.

At present, Ethiopian's North American services entail Toronto Pearson and Washington Dulles.