Ethiopian Airlines Set to Order New Boeing 777-8F Aircraft

Ethiopian Airlines is set to become the first African airline, and the second in the world to order Boeing's new game-changing 777-8 Freighter aircraft.

The airline and Boeing today signed a Memorandum of Understanding to purchase 5 Boeing 777-8 Freighters, the industry’s newest, most capable and most fuel-efficient twin-engine freighter.

The Memorandum of Understanding to order the 777-8 Freighter will enable Ethiopian Airlines to meet expanding global cargo demand from its hub in Addis Ababa and position the carrier for long-term sustainable growth.

The new 777-8 Freighters will be instrumental in Ethiopian Airline's long journey of growth agenda. Today, the airline's air cargo services cover more than 120 international destinations around the world with both belly hold capacity and dedicated Freighter services.

Boeing launched the new 777-8 Freighter in January and has already booked 34 firm orders for the model, which features the advanced technology from the new 777X family and proven performance of the market-leading 777 Freighter.

With payload capacity nearly identical to the 747-400 Freighter and a 30% improvement in fuel efficiency, emissions and operating costs, the 777-8 Freighter will enable a more sustainable and profitable business for operators.

Ethiopian Airlines currently operates nine 777 Freighters, connecting Africa with more than 40 cargo centers throughout Asia, Europe, the Middle East and Americas.

The carrier’s fleet also includes three 737-800 Boeing Converted Freighters and a combined commercial fleet of more than 80 Boeing jets including 737s, 767s, 787s and 777s.

As a leading global aerospace company, Boeing develops, manufactures and services commercial airplanes, defence products and space systems for customers in more than 150 countries.