Ethiopian Airlines Signs Deal for 10 Boeing Cargo Aircraft

Ethiopian Airlines has signed an agreement to purchase 10 Boeing cargo aircraft as the carrier continues to expand its freight operations across Africa and international markets.

The deal includes eight Boeing 777-8F freighters and two Boeing 777F aircraft, according to comments by Ethiopian Airlines Chief Executive Officer Mesfin Tasew reported by Reuters. The airline has also signed an option to acquire eight additional aircraft, although no decision on exercising that option was disclosed.

Reuters reported that the catalogue value of the 10 aircraft is $5 billion. The actual amount Ethiopian Airlines will pay under the agreement was not disclosed.

Expansion of cargo operations

Ethiopian Airlines said the agreement is intended to strengthen its cargo capabilities. Tasew said the purchase would support the continued expansion of the airline’s global network.

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

He added that the aircraft would help in “further reinforcing Ethiopia’s position as a leading cargo gateway between Africa and international markets.”

The planned purchase comes as Ethiopian Airlines seeks to grow its cargo services. The carrier already operates 12 Boeing 777F cargo planes and three Boeing 767 freighters, among other aircraft.

Ethiopian Airlines has a total fleet of more than 140 aircraft. The verified information does not specify when the aircraft covered by the agreement are expected to be delivered.

Large aircraft order

The Boeing 777-8F aircraft form the larger portion of the agreement, while the two Boeing 777Fs add to the airline’s existing freighter fleet. The additional purchase option could further increase the carrier’s cargo capacity if it is exercised.

The transaction gives Ethiopian Airlines a planned expansion of its dedicated freight fleet, but the final size of the order remains dependent on the airline’s decision regarding the eight optional aircraft.