Ethiopian Airlines Expands Cargo Fleet with Boeing 777-8 Freighters

Ethiopian Airlines has placed a new order with Boeing for eight cargo planes, including eight 777-8 Freighter and two 777 Freighter aircraft. This order marks the airline's second acquisition from the 777X family, following a previous purchase of eight 777-9 passenger aircraft, making Ethiopian Airlines the first African customer of the 777X series.

The new 777-8 Freighter will become the world's largest and most capable twin-engine cargo plane, enhancing Ethiopian Airlines' global freight operations. Mesfin Tasew, Ethiopian Airlines group CEO, stated that the addition of these aircraft will strengthen the airline's cargo capabilities and support the expansion of its global network. The 777-8 Freighter offers a maximum structural payload capacity of 118 tons, greater operational flexibility, efficiency, and sustainability.

Brad McMullen, Senior Vice President of Commercial Sales and Marketing at Boeing, highlighted the significance of the order, emphasizing the growing global demand for air freight and the strength of the collaboration between Boeing and Ethiopian Airlines. The new aircraft will complement the airline's existing cargo fleet, which includes 12 777 Freighter, two 767 Freighter, and four 737-800SF aircraft, connecting over 70 cargo markets worldwide.

Boeing remains committed to fostering innovation, economic opportunities, and sustainability through its commercial aircraft, defense products, and space systems. The company continues to support Ethiopian Airlines in expanding its cargo capabilities and global network, reinforcing its position as a key logistics hub between Africa and international markets.