Ethiopian Airlines, Africa's largest carrier, has finalized an order for nine additional Boeing 787-9 Dreamliner aircraft. This move aims to expand the airline's long-haul network and modernize its fleet with more fuel-efficient jets. The agreement builds on a long-standing relationship between the airline and the US planemaker.
Key Takeaways
- Ethiopian Airlines adds nine Boeing 787-9 Dreamliners to its fleet.
- The order supports network expansion to 145 international destinations.
- New aircraft enhance fuel efficiency and sustainability efforts.
- Boeing and Ethiopian Airlines maintain a strong, ongoing partnership.
- The airline also recently ordered 11 Boeing 737 MAX 8 jets.
Expanding Global Reach with Modern Aircraft
The new 787-9 Dreamliners will play a crucial role in Ethiopian Airlines' strategy to grow its international network. The airline currently serves 145 international destinations, and these widebody jets are designed for long-haul routes. Boeing highlighted rising demand in long-haul travel as a key factor behind the airline's decision to increase its order.
Mesfin Tasew, Group CEO of Ethiopian Airlines, confirmed the order. He emphasized the airline's commitment to fleet modernization. The new aircraft will help strengthen customer service and support the airline's sustainability goals.
"This order underscores our continued commitment to enhancing our fleet with modern, fuel-efficient aircraft, thereby further strengthening our customer service. We will continue to acquire more aircraft and adopt the latest technologies," said Mesfin Tasew, Group CEO of Ethiopian Airlines.
Fleet Facts
- Ethiopian Airlines currently operates 20 Boeing 787-8s.
- The airline also has 10 Boeing 787-9s in its fleet.
- Average age of its 787-8s is 11.3 years.
- Average age of its 787-9s is 6.2 years.
A Long-Standing Partnership with Boeing
Ethiopian Airlines has a strong relationship with Boeing. It operates the largest fleet of Boeing 787 aircraft in Africa, including both the shorter-fuselage 787-8 and the mid-sized 787-9 variants. These jets are vital for intercontinental routes from Addis Ababa to high-demand destinations across Europe, Asia, and North America. They also serve key routes within Africa.
Beyond passenger transport, the 787's belly cargo capacity offers significant benefits. It allows Ethiopian Airlines to serve high-demand trade lanes that align with its passenger routes, boosting its cargo operations.
Recent Boeing Orders
This latest 787 order follows another significant deal for Ethiopian Airlines. At the 2025 Dubai Airshow in November, the carrier ordered 11 additional Boeing 737 MAX 8 narrowbody jets. This brings their total 737 MAX 8 orders to 32, with 22 already in their fleet.
The airline also has outstanding orders for Boeing's 777X series, showcasing a comprehensive strategy to refresh its long-haul and short-to-medium haul capabilities.
The 787 Dreamliner's Role in Modern Aviation
The Boeing 787 Dreamliner family is known for its fuel efficiency and advanced technology. The 787-9 variant, in particular, offers a balance of range and passenger capacity, making it suitable for a wide array of international routes. Ethiopian Airlines' 787-8s typically seat 270 passengers in two classes, while its 787-9s accommodate 315 passengers in a similar configuration.
This month, Ethiopian Airlines has scheduled 1,307 flights using its 787-8s. The top destination for the 787-8 from its Addis Ababa hub is Delhi, with 50 round trips planned. The 787-9s will operate 673 flights this month, with Cape Town being a peak destination, seeing 40 round trips.
The continued investment in the Dreamliner fleet highlights the airline's confidence in the aircraft's performance and its ability to meet growing passenger and cargo demand across its extensive network.
