Flight Risks and Boarding Denials: how it works in Brazil — first-hand

This was confirmed by Ethiopian Airlines hotline. However, travelers report conflicting experiences and some prefer to get vaccinated as a precaution. There were also reports of individuals spreading false information and offering fraudulent certificates. For other routes, e.g., via Turkey (Turkish Airlines), a yellow fever certificate *might* be required, verify with the airline. The region of Foz do Iguaçu, despite being a yellow fever risk area, had no reported cases recently according to local hospitals, but personal experience suggests getting vaccinated for peace of mind.

Note that the certificate is legally valid only 10 days after the vaccination date. Airlines like Copa Airlines strictly enforce this rule and will deny boarding if the passenger's vaccination date is less than 10 days prior to departure. Passengers must plan at least 10–14 days ahead. In Brazil, the vaccine can be obtained cheaply (approx. 100 BRL) or for free through the public SUS healthcare system.

Addis Ababa transit airport is modern, clean, and features drinking water fountains where passengers can refill empty bottles. Although recommended, yellow fever vaccination certificates were not checked during boarding or arrival.

Baggage cannot easily be retrieved at a stopover point without airline cooperation. A Yellow Fever vaccination certificate is highly recommended for travel to Brazil to avoid registration and entry issues.

As a precaution, a self-made certificate was prepared using a purchased booklet and fake stamps.