Africa’s largest aviation group, Ethiopian Airlines, has signed an agreement with Boeing to acquire eight Boeing 777-8F and two Boeing 777F freighters, expanding its cargo fleet and strengthening its global logistics network.
The agreement reflects the airline’s continued focus on fleet modernization, operational efficiency and the expansion of its cargo business. According to a statement by the airline, The addition of the state-of-the-art Boeing 777-8F and 777F Freighters will enhance the airline’s capacity to meet growing demand for air cargo transportation while supporting its long-term growth strategy.
Mesfin Tasew, Group Chief Executive Officer of Ethiopian Airlines, said: “This agreement marks another significant milestone in strengthening Ethiopian Airlines’ cargo capabilities while supporting the continued expansion of our global network.
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. As demand for cargo services continues to grow, these aircraft will play a vital role in facilitating global trade, strengthening supply chain connectivity, and further reinforcing Ethiopia’s position as a leading cargo gateway between Africa and international markets. It also marks our long term partnership with Boeing.”
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Brad McMullen, Boeing senior vice president of Commercial Sales and Marketing said, “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. 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. The airline continues to make history as the first in Africa to order the new 777-8 Freighter.”
The Boeing 777-8F Freighter, the newest member of the 777X family, combines advanced technology, enhanced fuel efficiency, and extended range to set new standards in air cargo transportation. The Boeing 777F Freighter family is recognized for its industry-leading payload capability, exceptional operational reliability, lower operating costs, and reduced environmental impact. As the world’s largest and most capable twin-engine freighter, the 777-8F Freighter offers a maximum structural payload of 118 tonnes while delivering payload and range capabilities comparable to current freighters. It also provides 30% better fuel efficiency and emissions performance, 25% lower operating costs per tonne, and a significantly smaller noise footprint, making it a highly efficient and sustainable solution for global air cargo operations.
Ethiopian Airlines currently operates twelve Boeing 777F Freighters, two Boeing 767 Freighters, and four Boeing 737-8F aircraft, operating dedicated cargo flights to more than 70 cargo destinations across Africa, Asia, Europe, the Middle East, and North America. The addition of the new freighters will further strengthen this network, providing greater capacity and flexibility to meet the growing global demand for air cargo services. The agreement also reinforces Ethiopian Airlines’ position as Africa’s leading cargo operator and one of the world’s fastest-growing air cargo carriers.
