Ethiopian Airlines has confirmed an order for nine Boeing 787-9 Dreamliner aircraft with deliveries planned between 2031 and 2033, reinforcing its long-term fleet modernisation strategy and underscoring its ambition to maintain leadership in Africa’s highly competitive aviation market and enhancing its international connectivity.
According to a statement by the airline, its latest B787 order follows its commitment for 11 737 MAX jets announced at the Dubai Airshow. The 787 and 737 MAX purchase was finalized in December 2025 and boosts Ethiopian Airlines’ order book by 20 fuel-efficient Boeing airplanes. Ethiopian Airlines Group CEO Mr. Mesfin Tasew said: “We are pleased to confirm the order for nine Boeing 787 Dreamliner aircraft to further expand our existing fleet. This order underscores our continued commitment to enhancing our fleet with modern, fuel-efficient aircraft, thereby further strengthening our customer service. We will continue to acquire more aircraft and adopt the latest technologies as part of our strategic vision to advance sustainable aviation.”
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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 spanning the world’s second-largest continent. Mr. Anbessie Yitbarek, Boeing Vice President of Commercial Sales and Marketing for Africa said: “The 787 Dreamliner family has proven to be a game-changer for airlines around the world, and we are proud to support Ethiopian Airlines in their mission to connect Africa with the global community. Together, we look forward to shaping the future of air travel with
advanced, efficient and comfortable airplanes to serve their passengers.”
The order with Boeing brings Ethiopian Airlines’ total number of Boeing 787-9 aircraft on order to 20 aircraft. Furthermore, including the previously ordered Boeing 737 MAX aircraft, Ethiopian Airlines has significant firm orders as well as options and purchase rights for Boeing 737 MAX and Boeing 777X aircraft. In addition to expanding its fleet, Ethiopian Airlines Group is undertaking major expansion and modernization initiatives, including the groundbreaking of the Bishoftu International Mega Airport City, a transformative project to reshape African aviation and further enhance its position in the global aviation industry.
