Ethiopian Airlines, Africa’s largest airline company, and Boeing, its long-time partner, announced the signing of a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) for the purchase of five 777-8 Freighters, the industry’s newest, most capable, and fuel-efficient twin-engine freighters.
By this arrangement, Ethiopian Airlines will be able to satisfy growing global cargo demand from its hub in Addis Ababa thanks to the MoU to order the 777-8 Freighter, which will position the carrier for long-term sustainable growth.
“Consistent with our history of aviation technology leadership in Africa, we are pleased to sign this MoU with our longstanding partner Boeing, which will make us join a select group of launch customer airlines for the fleet. In our vision 2035, we are planning to expand our Cargo and Logistics business to be one of the largest global multimodal logistics providers in all continents, To this effect, we are increasing our dedicated Freighter fleet with the latest technology, fuel-efficient, and environment-friendly airplanes of the 21st century.
“We have also started the construction of the largest E-commerce Hub Terminal in Africa,” said Ethiopian Airlines Group CEO Tewolde Gebremariam. “The new 777-8 Freighters will be instrumental in this long journey of growth agenda. Today, our air cargo services cover more than 120 international destinations around the world with both belly hold capacity and dedicated Freighter services.”
Boeing introduced the new 777-8 Freighter in January and has already received 34 confirmed orders for the type, which combines sophisticated technology from the new 777X family with the market-leading 777 Freighter’s proven performance. The 777-8 Freighter will enable operators to run a more sustainable and successful business with payload capacity approximately identical to the 747-400 Freighter and a 30% improvement in fuel efficiency, emissions, and operating expenses.
“Ethiopian Airlines has been at the forefront of Africa’s cargo market for decades, growing its fleet of Boeing freighters and connecting the continent to the flow of global commerce,” said Ihssane Mounir, senior vice president of Commercial Sales and Marketing. “The intent to purchase the new 777-8 Freighter further underscores the value of our latest airplane and ensures Ethiopian will remain a key player in global cargo, providing it with increased capacity, flexibility, and efficiency for the future.”
Ethiopian Airlines currently has nine 777 Freighters in service, connecting Africa to over 40 cargo hubs across Asia, Europe, the Middle East, and the Americas. There are also three 737-800 Boeing Converted Freighters in the carrier’s fleet, as well as a combined commercial fleet of more than 80 Boeing jets, including 737s, 767s, 787s, and 777s.
Boeing is a global company that designs, manufactures, and services commercial airplanes, defense equipment, and space systems for customers in over 150 countries. As a leading exporter in the United States, the corporation taps into the skills of a worldwide supply chain to enhance economic opportunity, sustainability, and community impact. Boeing’s diverse workforce is dedicated to future innovation and upholding the company’s key principles of safety, quality, and integrity.
