Ethiopian Airlines is exercising its held options with Boeing, with the airline ordering an additional six 787-9 Dreamliners.
The options are from the airlines’ options made as part of their order in 2023. Ethiopian Airlines will use the 787-9 jets to expand its intercontinental network from Addis Ababa and increase cargo capacity as demand for long-haul travel continues to rise.
Ethiopian Airlines operates Africa’s largest 787 Dreamliner fleet, flying its 787-8 and 787-9 jets on intercontinental routes from Addis Ababa to high-demand destinations across Europe, Asia and North America, as well as key intra-African routes.
At the time of the announcement, no timeline for delivery has been indicated, nor has an engine selection been made.
The 787 Dreamliner’s versatility enables Ethiopian Airlines to efficiently transport passengers point-to-point across Africa while accommodating cargo in the belly of the airplane for high-demand trade lanes.
In Quotes
Ethiopian Airlines Group CEO, Mr Mesfin Tasew, said:
“Converting the options of six Boeing 787-9 Dreamliner airplanes into a firm order is truly a proud moment for us,”
“The order shows Ethiopian Airlines’ sustainable growth and preparation for further achievements. By growing our fleet size with ultra-modern airplanes such as the Boeing 787-9 Dreamliner, we are further maintaining operational excellence and passengers’ comfort.”
Anbessie Yitbarek, Boeing vice president of Commercial Sales and Marketing for Africa, added:
“We’re proud that Ethiopian Airlines continues to look to the 787 Dreamliner to serve as the backbone of their fleet as they grow and modernize their operations, open new routes and comfortably serve more passengers,”
Growing the long-haul fleet
Eithpoian Airlines currently operates 20 Boeing 787-8 and 8 Boeing 787-9. Thus, with the airline exercising its options, this will bring it to 14 of the larger 787-9 once delivered.
The airline has older aircraft in its fleet, with them operating Boeing 767-300ER (two), Boeing 777-200ER (conveniently, there are six of those) and Boeing 777-300ER (five), as well as the Airbus A350-900 (22) and A350-1000 (4)
For Ethiopian Airlines, it’s another step forward as it continues its expansion, as well as preparing for its new hub.
Welcome to Economy Class and Beyond. Your no-nonsense guide to network news, honest reviews, in-depth coverage, unique research, as well as the humour and madness I only know how to deliver.
Our Social Media pool has expanded. You can find us across most networks as @economybeyond on BlueSky, Threads, Mastodon and Instagram!
Also, remember that we are part of the BoardingArea community, bringing you the latest frequent flyer news from around the world.
Leave a Reply