ADDIS ABABA, Ethiopia – In a move that has the aviation world buzzing and Boeing’s stock soaring, Ethiopian Airlines has boldly stepped into the future of flight by agreeing to purchase a fleet of up to 20 Boeing 777X jets. This marks a significant upgrade for the airline, making it the first African carrier to welcome the highly anticipated, fuel-efficient 777X passenger jet into its family.
With an initial commitment for eight of the 777-9 model and an option for up to 12 more, Ethiopian Airlines is not just expanding its wingspan but is also setting a new trend in African aviation. This ambitious order follows closely on the heels of last year’s massive purchase, which included 11 787 Dreamliners and 20 737 MAX airplanes, showcasing Ethiopian Airlines’ determination to modernize and dominate the skies.
Group CEO of Ethiopian Airlines, Mr. Mesfin Tasew, couldn’t contain his excitement. “We’re thrilled to continue blazing trails in African aviation by integrating the latest and greatest in aviation technology,” he said. “The 777-9 not only offers us the chance to beef up our service and make our customers happier but also fits snugly with our goals of flying greener and cleaner.”
The 777-9, a spruced-up version of the 777 with a dash of 787 Dreamliner tech, boasts new carbon-fiber composite wings and engines that promise to outperform rivals by 10% in fuel efficiency and operating costs. This jet is Ethiopian Airlines’ golden ticket to expanding its reach and refreshing its fleet, offering more seats, extended range, and enhanced cargo capacity to meet growing demands in Africa, Asia, Europe, and North America.
Brad McMullen, Boeing’s senior VP of Commercial Sales and Marketing, expressed his enthusiasm about continuing a partnership with Ethiopian Airlines that spans 75 years. “Ethiopian Airlines selecting the 777-9 as its fleet’s new flagship is a proud moment for us. Their trust in our airplanes strengthens our bond and showcases our shared commitment to innovation and growth.”
The Boeing fleet forms the backbone of Ethiopian Airlines, with over half of its current lineup, including 29 787 Dreamliners, 20 777s, and 15 737 MAX jets. The airline and Boeing are also exploring ways to boost Ethiopia’s aerospace sector, including enhancing the airline’s Maintenance, Repair, and Overhaul (MRO) capabilities and supporting educational initiatives.
With Africa’s air traffic projected to grow by more than 7% annually through 2042, Ethiopian Airlines’ latest acquisition positions it well ahead of the curve. The 777-9, with its range of 13,510 km, promises to connect Addis Ababa with distant lands like Seattle, bringing the world closer one flight at a time.
