Ethiopian Airlines has committed to purchasing 11 additional Boeing 737 MAX jets, strengthening its position as Africa’s largest carrier.
The agreement, signed at the Dubai Airshow, covers 11 B737-8 jets and is expected to bolster the airline’s regional and international operations while supporting the continued expansion of its Addis Ababa hub.
Confirming the development, Ethiopian Airlines Group Chief Executive Officer, Mr. Mesfin Tasew, said: “We are thrilled to be announcing our agreement with Boeing for additional 11 B737-8 airplanes today during Dubai Airshow. The order will support our growth plans that we have set as part of our vision and strategy.
“We are happy that our partnership with Boeing continues to grow over the years and we look forward to flying Boeing airplanes for years to come and that we will continue to serve our customers by bringing them high performance airplanes with passenger comfort.”
The new aircraft will enhance the carrier’s ability to meet increasing passenger demand across Africa, the Middle East, India, and Southern Europe, where the reliability, efficiency and range of the 737 MAX family play a strategic role in enabling quick turnarounds and high-frequency operations.
Boeing also welcomed the agreement, emphasising its longstanding relationship with the Ethiopian flag carrier.
Brad McMullen, Boeing’s Senior Vice President of Commercial Sales and Marketing, said: “Ethiopian Airlines’ commitment to expand its 737 MAX fleet underscores its leadership in Africa. Our new agreement also strengthens our nearly 80-year partnership with the airline and region.
“We are proud that our efficient and versatile airplanes will continue to play a pivotal role in Ethiopian Airlines’ growth as they further connect the African continent and the world.”
Ethiopian Airlines currently operates the largest Boeing fleet in Africa and holds the biggest backlog of 737 MAX, 777X, and 787 Dreamliner aircraft on the continent.
Boeing, a leading global aerospace company and major U.S. exporter, provides commercial airplanes, defence products and space systems to customers in more than 150 countries, supported by a global workforce committed to safety, quality and integrity.
