Ethiopian Airlines places record order for Boeing aircraft

Ethiopian Airlines, Africa’s largest airline group, has announced an order for 11 787 Dreamliners and 20 737 MAX aircraft, with the possibility of ordering an additional 15 and 21 aircraft respectively, bringing the total number of Boeing aircraft to 67.

The agreement, signed at the Dubai Airshow, marks the largest Boeing aircraft purchase in Africa’s history.

Mesfin Tasew, Group Chief Executive Officer of Ethiopian Airlines, said, “We are pleased to announce that Ethiopian Airlines has entered into an agreement with Boeing to place a firm order for 31 ultra-modern airplanes, with options for an additional 36 aircraft.

This order will enable us to modernize and expand our fleet in line with Ethiopian Airlines’ growth plans and Vision 2035 strategy. With this deal, we further solidify our longstanding and exemplary business relationship with Boeing. the 787 Dreamliner and 737 MAX demonstrate Ethiopian’s commitment to environmentally friendly decision-making and dedication to serving our passengers with the latest state-of-the-art technology aircraft.”

Ethiopian Airlines ordered the 787-9 model, which is part of the Dreamliner family and is known for its 25 percent reduction in fuel consumption and emissions compared to its alternatives. Ethiopian Airlines has also ordered the 737-8 model, which offers a 20 percent reduction in fuel consumption and emissions and a 50 percent reduction in noise footprint compared to its predecessor. Both families bring improved environmental performance and passenger comfort to their respective markets.

Ethiopian Airlines currently operates more than 80 Boeing aircraft and this new commitment further strengthens and diversifies its fleet. Ethiopian has the largest Dreamliner fleet in Africa, which includes the 787-8 and 787-9. The new 737 MAX order will increase the airline’s backlog of fuel-efficient airplanes to 50 and will be announced on Boeing’s Orders and Deliveries Web site as soon as it is finalized.

Boeing and Ethiopian Airlines have also agreed to work together to provide cabin modifications to the airline’s existing 787 Dreamliner aircraft. These comprehensive modifications will enhance the passenger experience with advanced in-flight entertainment systems and new seats in all cabins, including lie-flat business class seats manufactured by Boeing’s joint venture Adient Aerospace.

Ethiopian Airlines’ landmark commitment to expand its 787 and 737 MAX fleet continues its leadership position as one of Africa’s preeminent airlines,” said Brad McMullen, Boeing’s senior vice president for commercial sales and marketing.

“Ethiopian Airlines was the first African airline to take delivery of the 787 and the Dreamliner family will continue to play an integral role in its long-haul fleet. Ethiopian Airlines has decades of experience operating single-aisle and wide-body jets, and we are very grateful for their more than 75-year relationship, and we are confident in our product and partnership.”