Ethiopian Airlines is set to significantly expand its cargo fleet after signing an agreement with Boeing for 10 freighters, including eight new-generation 777-8Fs and two 777Fs.
The deal will strengthen the airline’s cargo capacity and support the continued expansion of its international logistics network as demand for air freight grows across Africa and global markets.
The agreement includes the first Boeing 777-8 Freighter order by an African airline, further extending Ethiopian Airlines’ long-standing relationship with Boeing and its strategy of building a large, modern dedicated freighter fleet.
Mesfin Tasew, Group Chief Executive Officer of Ethiopian Airlines, said the new aircraft would provide additional payload capacity, operational flexibility and efficiency as the airline expands its cargo network.
“This agreement marks another significant milestone in strengthening Ethiopian Airlines’ cargo capabilities while supporting the continued expansion of our global network,” Tasew said.
He added that the aircraft would help the airline respond to growing demand for cargo transportation while supporting international trade and supply-chain connectivity through Ethiopia.
The Boeing 777-8F, the newest freighter variant in the 777X family, is designed to combine long-range capability with high payload capacity. Boeing says the aircraft can carry a maximum structural payload of 118 tonnes and offers improved fuel efficiency and operating economics compared with current-generation freighters.
The aircraft is also expected to provide a lower noise footprint and reduced emissions, making it suited to long-haul cargo operations where airlines are seeking greater efficiency alongside additional capacity.
Boeing Senior Vice President of Commercial Sales and Marketing Brad McMullen said the order reflected both the strength of the Boeing-Ethiopian Airlines partnership and the continuing demand for dedicated air cargo capacity.
Ethiopian Airlines already operates one of Africa’s largest dedicated freighter fleets, comprising 12 Boeing 777Fs, two Boeing 767 freighters and four Boeing 737-8F aircraft.
Its cargo operation currently serves more than 70 destinations across Africa, Asia, Europe, the Middle East and North America. The additional aircraft will provide capacity for further network growth while giving the airline greater flexibility to respond to changing cargo flows.
The expansion also reinforces the importance of Ethiopian Airlines’ Addis Ababa hub as a cargo gateway linking African markets with international destinations. Its location and extensive passenger and cargo network have enabled the airline to develop Addis Ababa into a major connection point for trade between Africa, Asia, Europe, the Middle East and North America.
With eight 777-8Fs and two 777Fs joining its existing freighter fleet, Ethiopian Airlines is positioning its cargo business for further growth while continuing its broader fleet modernisation programme.
Add the announcement date and datelineClarify the 777-8F order significance
