Ethiopian Airlines orders eight 777-8Fs and two 777Fs

Boeing and Ethiopian Airlines have announced an order for eight 777-8 Freighters and two 777 Freighters. The airline will use the new aircraft to expand its Boeing freighter fleet, combining the 777 Freighter’s established capabilities with the next-generation features of the 777X-based 777-8 Freighter.

The order marks Ethiopian Airlines’ second purchase from the Boeing 777X family, following its order for eight 777-9 passenger aircraft, which made it the first 777X customer in Africa. The 777-8 Freighter will support the airline’s expanding global network and international cargo operations.

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

With a maximum structural payload of 118 tonnes, the 777-8 Freighter offers high payload and range capabilities, allowing operators to serve new markets while reducing fuel consumption and operating costs per tonne, according to Boeing. The 777 Freighter has established a benchmark for twin-engine freighter efficiency and productivity, while Ethiopian Airlines’ 777F fleet is among the most highly utilised commercial aircraft in service.

“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 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. The airline continues to make history as the first in Africa to order the new 777-8 Freighter.”

The 777-8 Freighter will complement Ethiopian Airlines’ existing cargo fleet while retaining key features of the 777 Freighter, including common cross-sections and walkways and the ability to carry large outsize cargo.

Ethiopian Airlines currently serves more than 70 cargo markets across Africa, Asia, Europe, the Middle East and North America with a freighter fleet comprising 12 777 Freighters, two 767 Freighters and four 737-800SF aircraft.

The new order will allow the airline to expand its cargo network and provide greater flexibility to meet growing global demand for air freight.