ADDIS ABABA- Ethiopian Airlines (ET) announced a new agreement with Boeing, in which the East African airline will acquire eight 777-9 passenger airplanes, with the potential for an additional 12 jets (777X).
By selecting the 777-9 aircraft, Ethiopian Airlines becomes the inaugural 777X customer in Africa, expanding on its significant 2023 order for 11 787 Dreamliner and 20 737 MAX airplanes aimed at modernizing and expanding its fleet.
Ethiopian Airlines Order 777X
“We are delighted to maintain our position at the forefront of African aviation by embracing cutting-edge technologies to enhance our services and customer satisfaction. With a focus on improving operational performance and a commitment to environmental sustainability, the 777-9 offers greater flexibility, reduced fuel consumption, and lower carbon emissions,” stated Ethiopian Airlines Group CEO Mr. Mesfin Tasew.
“We extend our gratitude to Boeing for their enduring partnership and support, eagerly anticipating the deployment of the 777-9 across the African skies and beyond.”
Derived from the 777 platform and incorporating advanced technologies from the 787 Dreamliner family, the 777-9 showcases innovative features such as new carbon-fiber composite wings and engines. These advancements contribute to a remarkable 10% improvement in fuel efficiency and operating costs compared to competing aircraft.
The selection of the 777-9 by Ethiopian Airlines aligns with the carrier’s strategic goals to expand and modernize its fleet, encompassing increased size, extended range, and enhanced passenger and cargo capacity. This move positions Ethiopian Airlines to serve high-demand markets in Africa, Asia, Europe, and North America.
Boeing’s Senior Vice President of Commercial Sales and Marketing Brad McMullen expressed, “Ethiopian Airlines’ decision to make the 777-9 the flagship of its expanding fleet marks another significant milestone in our enduring partnership. With a history spanning 75 years, we deeply appreciate the trust and confidence Ethiopian Airlines places in our aircraft.”
Strong Collaboration
Boeing has a substantial presence in Ethiopian Airlines’ fleet, comprising 29 787 Dreamliners, 20 777s, three 767s, 27 Next-Generation 737s, and 15 737 MAX jets.
The collaboration between Ethiopian Airlines and Boeing extends beyond fleet development, encompassing joint efforts to advance the country’s aerospace industry.
Initiatives include supporting Ethiopian Airlines’ Maintenance, Repair, and Overhaul (MRO) capabilities, fostering industrial development, enhancing training programs at the Ethiopian Aviation University, promoting STEM education, and contributing aerospace exhibits to the Ethiopian Museum of Science.
Boeing’s Commercial Market Outlook underscores Africa’s promising aviation growth, projecting an annual air traffic growth rate exceeding 7% through 2042—the third-highest globally, surpassing the global average of approximately 6%.
With a remarkable range of 13,510 km (7,295 nautical miles), the 777-9 provides airline growth opportunities. It enhances the travel experience for passengers, enabling flights from Addis Ababa to destinations as distant as Seattle in the U.S.”
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