Ethiopian Airlines Doubles Down on Delayed Boeing 777-8F Programme

Ethiopian Airlines has placed an order for ten Boeing freighters, with eight of them being the new 777-8F model. This is a significant commitment from the airline, which believes that the 777-8F will be delivered in 2028.

The 777-8F uses the same wing and GE9X engines as the passenger 777X aircraft, but has a new-build cargo airframe designed for maximum payload. Ethiopian Airlines currently operates 12 Boeing 777Fs, two 767Fs, and four converted 737-800s to over 70 markets.

Boeing has been facing delays with the certification of the 777X programme, which has slipped repeatedly since its initial planned delivery date in 2020. The FAA granted an exemption allowing airworthiness certificates for up to 35 more 777Fs from January 1, 2028 through January 1, 2031.

Brad McMullen, Senior Vice President of Commercial Sales and Marketing at Boeing, stated, '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.'