Key facts
- Ethiopian Airlines is nearing a deal to acquire up to 10 Boeing freighters.
- The order is expected to include current-generation Boeing 777F and upcoming Boeing 777-8F models.
- The acquisition supports Ethiopian Airlines' strategy to compete with Gulf carriers and develop a new African aviation hub.
- Boeing is seeking a waiver from the FAA to deliver 777F freighters beyond the end of 2027 due to emissions regulations.
- The new hub at Bishoftu is planned to have an ultimate annual capacity of 110 million passengers.
Ethiopian Airlines is reportedly close to finalizing an agreement with Boeing to purchase up to 10 long-haul freighters. This acquisition is intended to enhance the airline's cargo capacity and support its strategic vision for a new African aviation hub designed to rival major Gulf carriers. The anticipated order is expected to comprise a mix of Boeing's current-generation 777F aircraft and the forthcoming 777-8F freighter model.
Sources indicate that the deal will likely include two 777F aircraft, serving as a bridge until the delayed 777-8F becomes available. Boeing is currently producing two 777F freighters per month. However, international emissions regulations are set to halt production of the current 777F by the end of 2027. To address this, Boeing has requested a waiver from the Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) to deliver an additional 35 777F freighters beyond this deadline, a request that remains pending.
The fleet expansion aligns with Ethiopian Airlines' broader infrastructure development, including a new $12.5 billion mega-hub at Bishoftu, with phase one scheduled to open in 2030. This facility is projected to eventually handle 110 million passengers annually. The airline has also been expanding its cargo operations, including a new direct all-cargo route from Chengdu, China, to Addis Ababa.