ADDIS ABABA, March 18 (Xinhua) -- Ethiopian Airlines, Africa's largest flight carrier, on Wednesday announced the resumption of its direct passenger flight between Addis Ababa and Atlanta in the United States, starting from May 21.

The Ethiopian flag carrier will resume the service after a temporary interruption of the route since February, the airline said in a statement.

Chief Executive Officer of the Ethiopian Airlines Group Mesfin Tasew said that the route will serve growing demand from business travelers, members of the African diaspora, and tourists seeking convenient access to destinations across the African continent.

"Atlanta is one of the most vibrant markets in the United States, and Ethiopian Airlines is delighted to bring this route back into its network," the statement quoted Tasew as saying.

Noting that Atlanta serves as a major economic and cultural center in the United States and hosts one of the largest African diaspora communities in the country, the airline said the reintroduction of the route further enhances its role as a vital bridge linking Africa with the rest of the world. ■