Flights from the UK to Jimma connect through Addis Ababa Bole International Airport (ADD). Ethiopian Airlines operates direct flights from London Heathrow to Addis Ababa, taking about 7 hours 45 minutes. From ADD, Ethiopian Airlines runs domestic services to Jimma Airport (JIM), with a flight time of about 1 hour 15 minutes.
Other airlines serving the London to Addis Ababa route (with connections) include Turkish Airlines via Istanbul, Emirates via Dubai, EgyptAir via Cairo, and Etihad Airways via Abu Dhabi. Ethiopian Airlines is typically the most convenient option since you can book the domestic connection on one ticket.
Return fares range from £440-560 in low season to £700-880+ during peak travel periods. The cheapest months are usually March-May and September-October. Christmas, Easter, and the Ethiopian festival season (September-January) push prices higher.
Jimma is the birthplace of Arabica coffee, surrounded by lush highland forests. Jimma Airport (JIM) is located about 5 km from the city centre.
Price Patterns
Prices on the London-Addis Ababa leg drop midweek, especially Tuesday and Wednesday
Domestic add-on fares to Jimma are much cheaper when booked on the same Ethiopian Airlines ticket
Ethiopian festival season (Meskel, Timkat) in September-January increases demand
Sweet Spot
6-8 weeks before travel for the best combination of availability and price on the London-Addis Ababa route.
Avoid Booking
Less than 2 weeks out (premium pricing)
During Ethiopian Christmas (7 January) and Timkat (19 January) when demand surges
UK school holiday periods if travelling with families
Aba Jifar
Visit the historic palace of King Aba Jifar and explore Jimma’s royal heritage.
Jimma Museum
Discover local history, culture, and traditional artefacts in the city museum.
Coffee Tours
Experience Ethiopia’s famous coffee culture right where some of the finest beans are grown.
Boye Lake
Enjoy peaceful lake views and spot local birdlife just outside the city.
Local Markets
Wander through lively markets to see daily life, fresh produce, and handmade goods.