Ethiopian Airlines has placed a firm order for ten Boeing 777 freighters, including eight next-generation 777-8Fs and two current-generation 777Fs.
Announced in Addis Ababa on September 30, the agreement also includes purchase rights for eight additional 777-8Fs. The ten firm aircraft have a combined catalogue value of approximately $5bn. The actual transaction price has not been disclosed.
The deal makes Ethiopian the first African airline to order the 777-8F. It also represents its second commitment to Boeing’s 777X Family. The carrier previously ordered eight 777-9 passenger aircraft in March 2024.
With a maximum structural payload of 118 tonnes, the 777-8F is being developed as the world’s largest twin-engined freighter. Boeing says the type will offer payload and range capabilities comparable with existing large freighters while delivering improved fuel efficiency and lower operating costs per tonne.
Ethiopian Airlines Group CEO Mesfin Tasew said the new aircraft would give Ethiopian greater payload capacity, operational flexibility, and efficiency. It will also help to support the continued expansion of its international logistics network. “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,” he added.
Ethiopian currently operates 12 777Fs, two 767 freighters and four 737-800SF converted freighters, serving more than 70 dedicated cargo destinations across Africa, Asia, Europe, the Middle East and North America.
The carrier’s freight business is also growing rapidly, with cargo volumes rising 16% to 897,000 tonnes during its latest financial year.
