Ethiopian Airlines orders 10 Boeing freighters in major cargo fleet expansion

ADDIS ABABA, Ethiopia (XOL Africa) — Ethiopian Airlines has ordered 10 Boeing freighter aircraft as Africa’s largest airline expands its cargo operations and global freight network.

The order, announced by Boeing and Ethiopian Airlines on Sept. 30, includes eight 777-8 Freighters and two 777 Freighters. It makes Ethiopian Airlines the first African carrier to order Boeing’s new 777-8 Freighter.

The deal is also Ethiopian Airlines’ second order for Boeing’s 777X family, following its purchase of eight 777-9 passenger aircraft in 2024.

“This agreement marks another significant milestone in strengthening Ethiopian Airlines’ cargo capabilities while supporting the continued expansion of our global network,” Ethiopian Airlines Group CEO Mesfin Tasew said.

“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,” he said.

The 777-8 Freighter, which Boeing describes as the largest and most capable twin-engine freighter, has a maximum structural payload of 118 metric tons.

Boeing said the aircraft will offer the highest payload and range capability among its freighters while reducing fuel consumption and operating costs per tonne.

The new aircraft will complement Ethiopian Airlines’ existing Boeing freighter fleet and support the carrier’s expanding cargo network.

“Ethiopian Airlines’ order for the industry-leading 777 Freighter and new 777-8 Freighter highlights both the strength of our partnership and growing demand for air cargo worldwide,” said Brad McMullen, Boeing’s senior vice president of commercial sales and marketing.

“We appreciate Ethiopian Airlines’ continued confidence in Boeing and the 777 and 777X family of airplanes as it expands its cargo capabilities and global network,” McMullen said.

Ethiopian Airlines currently serves more than 70 cargo markets across Africa, Asia, Europe, the Middle East and North America.

Its existing freighter fleet consists of 12 Boeing 777 Freighters, two Boeing 767 Freighters and four Boeing 737-800 converted freighters.

The airline said the new aircraft will provide additional capacity and flexibility as demand for air cargo continues to grow, while strengthening Ethiopia’s position as a major cargo gateway linking African markets with international destinations.

The 777-8 Freighter retains key features of the 777 Freighter, including common cross-sections and walkways and the ability to carry large and oversized cargo, according to Boeing.

Ethiopian Airlines’ latest purchase further expands its long-standing relationship with Boeing and strengthens its position as a major player in Africa’s growing air cargo market.