Photo: Boeing Ethiopian Airlines is expanding its cargo fleet with a new order for 10 Boeing freighters, including eight of the new 777-8 Freighter and two additional 777 Freighters.
The deal, announced by Boeing and Ethiopian Airlines, gives the airline its second order for aircraft from the 777X family. Ethiopian previously ordered eight 777-9 passenger aircraft, making it the first African airline to become a 777X customer.
The new 777-8 Freighter will join Ethiopian Airlines’ existing 777 Freighter fleet as the carrier looks to increase capacity across its international cargo network.
Boeing says the 777-8 Freighter will have a maximum structural payload of 118 tonnes. The aircraft is designed to combine the range and payload capabilities of the 777X family with the operating characteristics of Boeing’s existing 777 Freighter.
For Ethiopian Airlines, the aircraft will complement a cargo fleet that already includes 12 Boeing 777 Freighters, two Boeing 767 Freighters and four 737-800SF aircraft.
The airline currently serves more than 70 cargo markets across Africa, Asia, Europe, the Middle East and North America. The additional aircraft are expected to give the carrier more capacity and flexibility as it expands its international freight operation.
“The addition of the Boeing 777-8F Freighters and 777F Freighters will enhance our ability to serve customers around the world with greater payload capacity, operational flexibility, efficiency, and sustainability,” said Mesfin Tasew, Group CEO of Ethiopian Airlines.
Signing ceremony. Photo: BoeingThe order also strengthens a long-standing relationship between Ethiopian Airlines and Boeing. The airline has become one of the largest operators of Boeing widebody aircraft in Africa, while its existing 777 Freighters are among its most heavily utilized commercial aircraft.
Boeing said Ethiopian Airlines’ order makes it the first airline in Africa to order the 777-8 Freighter.
The latest deal comes as Ethiopian Airlines continues to develop its passenger and cargo networks from its Addis Ababa hub. The new freighters will eventually add the next-generation 777X platform to a cargo operation already built around Boeing aircraft.