SINGAPORE, 8 March 2024: Ethiopian Airlines announced earlier this week that it will purchase eight Boeing 777-9 aircraft with an option to acquire up to 12 additional jets.
Ethiopian Airlines’ 777-9 jets selection positions the carrier as the first 777X customer in Africa. The carrier builds on its landmark 2023 order for 11 787 Dreamliner and 20 737 MAX aircraft to expand its fleet.
“We are pleased to continue setting the trend in African aviation by adopting cutting-edge technologies to enhance our services and customer satisfaction. Improving our operational performance and commitment to environmental sustainability, the 777-9 offers more flexibility, reduced fuel consumption and carbon emissions,” said Ethiopian Airlines Group CEO Mesfin Tasew.
Based on the 777 and with advanced technologies from the 787 Dreamliner family, the 777-9 features new carbon-fibre composite wings and engines that will enable the airplane to achieve 10% better fuel efficiency and operating costs. The 777-9 will support Ethiopian Airlines’ plans to grow and renew its fleet in size, range and passenger and cargo capacity to reach high-demand markets in Africa, Asia, Europe and North America.
Boeing aircraft comprise over half of Ethiopian Airlines’ current fleet, including 29 787 Dreamliners, 20 777s, three 767s, 27 Next-Generation 737s and 15 737 MAX jets. Ethiopian Airlines and Boeing continue to explore opportunities to further develop the country’s aerospace industry, including support for Ethiopian Airlines’ MRO capabilities, industrial development, training capabilities at the Ethiopian Aviation University and STEM education, and equipping the Ethiopian Museum of Science with aerospace exhibits.
Boeing’s Commercial Market Outlook forecasts Africa’s annual air traffic growth at more than 7% through 2042—the third-highest growth rate among global regions and above the global average of approximately 6%. With a range of 13,510 km (7,295 nautical miles), the 777-9 enables flights from Addis Ababa to Seattle in the US, providing growth opportunities for airlines and offering enhanced features for passengers.
