Ethiopian Airlines Edges Closer to Major Boeing Freight Order

Ethiopian Airlines is on the verge of finalizing an order for eight to ten Boeing freighters, including six to eight 777-8Fs. The airline had signed a preliminary agreement for five 777-8Fs in March 2022 but never converted it into a firm order.

The talks come as Ethiopian prepares to expand its cargo capacity at Addis Ababa hub and develop the new Bishoftu International Airport, which is expected to open its first phase in 2030 with a capacity of 3.7 million tonnes annually.

Ethiopian operates 12 current-generation 777Fs and has placed a separate firm order for five additional ones to meet near-term cargo demand.