The low roar of the airplane engines combined with the announcements over the speakers—the rushed yet measured voices—created an instant feeling of familiarity. I could understand why they were nervous—the crew was calm, yet they were shouldering the responsibility of getting every passenger seated, belted, and informed of safety measures. This was a no-margin-for-error situation, with no alternative solution to air-lift.

While a few countries in Africa are progressing well, many areas still live up to the description of the ‘Dark Continent.’  In parts of Africa, where infrastructure dictates operations, some airports shut down at 6 PM sharp due to technical and security reasons, and if the flight does not take off before this deadline, it overnight stays on the tarmac. The passengers and crew are left in an unenviable position: hungry, tired, and stranded. A lesson in patience, perhaps, but one I’d rather not repeat.

Having gone through this a number of times, I wasn’t fazed anymore. It was a routine dance of adrenaline and endurance—one I had learned to accept. Even before I reached the airport that day, I had been thoroughly searched, sniffed out by three dogs, and my luggage passed through four X-ray machines. If paranoia took form, it was here, orchestrating the orchestra of security checks.

To some, it would have been an adrenaline rush. Others, sheer anxiety. I imagine my family did—or rather, became—a part of that latter category: fervent prayers, coconuts broken in front of the almighty for safe passage of travels, and every journey becoming a spiritual event—a cocktail of faith, fear, and hope.

This was not luxury travel of any sort, and the no-frills economy flight had nothing to divert the mind aboard except perhaps a sense of purpose. The minimalist quantity of food was very good indeed, the cabin attendants gracious and competent, and bright sunlight creeping through aircraft windows put nothing on their smiling countenance. Their courtesy recalled home yet unique coiffure spoke perhaps of Africa.

Where once Gulf airlines dominated, Ethiopian Airways has risen, phoenix-like, to carve its space in the skies. It is a testimony to the qualities of perseverance and vision often reflected in the journeys of its passengers.

The arrival into Addis Ababa, the Ethiopian capital, was always an experience of contrasts. Not polished to perfection, this city still manages to be modernly charming, revealing potential at every corner. The industrious and efficient staff moved with a rhythm that belied the chaos of a busy international hub.

The International Transit Hall was a maelstrom of activity—crowded yet orderly, the perfect stage for the dissemination of not just the camaraderie of shared destinations but also the unintended risks of a globalized world. Amidst this organized chaos, I couldn’t help but marvel at how efficiently it all ran. Security checks were swift, and in less than an hour, I was at the gates for my next flight, ready to go on yet another leg of my journey.

Lessons in Resilience

Ethiopian Airways, much like the country it represents, has come a long way. It has not only emerged as a significant player in African aviation but also as a symbol of resilience and adaptability. Operating in one of the most challenging regions in the world, the success of this airline reminds us that from adversity may come growth.

It is a story of anyone who has overcome the odds, and life, much like these flights, is very similar. Sometimes deadlines are close; sometimes hurdles emerge at the wrong time, and there are moments when you are absolutely exhausted. Yet, life also allows hope and achievements to come forth, much like efficient transits in Addis Ababa.

A Personal Reflection

For me, these journeys are not about reaching a destination; they are life in themselves—a balance between tension and tranquility, struggle and satisfaction. They remind me of the importance of preparation, patience, and perspective.

It’s very easy to get caught up in frustration with security checks, delays, or the lack of in-flight luxuries. But what if we decided to wear those moments as opportunities? Chances to reflect, reassess, and grow. Just like the Ethiopian Airways crew making sure every seatbelt was securely fastened, literally with seconds left, we too can rise to whatever challenge, in elegance and resolve.

The Broader Perspective

Travel across Africa, and you finally get a different beat than anywhere else in the world. It taught me valuable stuff. It is a region where resiliency has become a life mantra, where people and systems sail out of complexities, head held high. Yes, the airports may shut down early; yes, the infrastructure asks for some patience, but the people—oh, the people! They seem to represent hope, staying power, and quiet assurance in a better tomorrow.

This, I believe, is what motivation is. To rise, phoenix-like, from the ashes of adversity. It means finding efficiency in chaos, beauty in imperfection, and appreciating the journey, no matter how tough it might be.

A Catalyst for Change

As I boarded my next flight, I couldn’t help but feel a sense of gratitude—not just for the journey but for the lessons it imparted. Life, just like travel, is unpredictable. It requires one to prepare, be agile, and most importantly, to believe in oneself.

Whether you fight your way through congested transit halls, race against tight deadlines, or wage personal battles, remember this: resilience is your biggest ally. Enjoy the journey, trust the process, and know that, come rain or shine, there is a destination waiting for you.

And as Ethiopian Airways proved, no matter what the odds, you can rise and soar to unprecedented heights.

Dr. Prahlada N.B
MBBS (JJMMC), MS (PGIMER, Chandigarh). 
MBA in Healthcare & Hospital Management (BITS, Pilani), 
Postgraduate Certificate in Technology Leadership and Innovation (MIT, USA)
Executive Programme in Strategic Management (IIM, Lucknow)
Senior Management Programme in Healthcare Management (IIM, Kozhikode)
Advanced Certificate in AI for Digital Health and Imaging Program (IISc, Bengaluru). 

Senior Professor and former Head, 
Department of ENT-Head & Neck Surgery, Skull Base Surgery, Cochlear Implant Surgery. 
Basaveshwara Medical College & Hospital, Chitradurga, Karnataka, India. 

My Vision: I don’t want to be a genius.  I want to be a person with a bundle of experience. 

My Mission: Help others achieve their life’s objectives in my presence or absence!

My Values:  Creating value for others. 

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