The Boeing agreement encompasses Ethiopian Airlines ordering 11 787 Dreamliners and 20 737 MAX jets, with an option for an additional 36 jets.
In a groundbreaking announcement at the Dubai Airshow 2023, Ethiopian Airlines and Boeing have forged an unprecedented deal, marking the largest-ever purchase of Boeing airplanes in African history. The agreement encompasses Ethiopian Airlines ordering 11 787 Dreamliners and 20 737 MAX airplanes, with an option for an additional 36 jets. This monumental commitment, valued at a significant figure, solidifies the longstanding partnership between Ethiopian Airlines and Boeing, stretching back over 75 years.
The magnitude of this deal extends beyond the sheer number of aircraft ordered. It underlines the strategic vision of Ethiopian Airlines, Africa’s leading carrier, and Boeing, one of the world’s premier aircraft manufacturers, to shape the future of aviation on the continent. The order includes a mix of Boeing’s advanced Dreamliner and 737 MAX models, aligning with the latest advancements in fuel efficiency, reduced emissions, and enhanced passenger experience.
“We are pleased to announce that Ethiopian Airlines has reached a deal with Boeing to place a firm order for 31 ultra-modern airplanes, with opportunity for 36 additional jets,” said Mesfin Tasew, CEO, Ethiopian Airlines Group. “This order will enable us to modernize and increase our fleet in support of Ethiopian Airlines’ growth plan and our Vision 2035 Strategy. Through this deal, we have solidified our decades-old exemplary business partnership with Boeing. The 787 Dreamliner and 737 MAX demonstrate Ethiopian Airlines’ environmentally conscious decisions and its commitment to serve passengers with the latest technologically advanced airplanes,” he further added.
Ethiopian Airlines’ decision to incorporate the 787-9 Dreamliner into its fleet emphasizes its commitment to modernization and environmental consciousness. The Dreamliner family is renowned for its innovative design, reducing fuel use and emissions by 25% compared to the aircraft it replaces. This aligns with Ethiopian Airlines’ Vision 2035 Strategy, positioning the carrier as a trailblazer in adopting environmentally friendly aviation solutions.
The inclusion of the 737-8 model further illustrates Ethiopian Airlines’ commitment to fleet diversification. This model offers a 20% reduction in fuel use and emissions and a 50% smaller noise footprint, making it an ideal choice for routes with varying operational requirements. Diversifying the fleet enhances operational flexibility, allowing the airline to optimize its network and respond effectively to market demands.
Beyond the aircraft order, Ethiopian Airlines and Boeing have inked an agreement to collaborate on cabin modification services for the airline’s existing 787 Dreamliners. This comprehensive retrofitting will enhance the passenger experience by incorporating advanced in-flight entertainment and installing new seats across all cabins, including lie-flat business-class seats from Boeing joint venture Adient Aerospace. This collaboration extends the lifecycle of the existing fleet, aligning with Ethiopian Airlines’ commitment to providing cutting-edge services to its passengers.
“Ethiopian Airlines continues its leadership as one of Africa’s preeminent airlines with this landmark commitment to expand their 787 and 737 MAX fleets,” said Brad McMullen, senior vice president of Commercial Sales and Marketing, Boeing. “Ethiopian was the first African airline to take delivery of the 787, and the Dreamliner family continues to play an integral role in its long-haul fleet. With their decades of experience operating our single-aisle and widebody jets, we appreciate Ethiopian Airlines’ confidence in our products and the strength of our relationship after more than 75 years of collaboration,” he further added.
This landmark collaboration comes against the backdrop of Boeing’s Commercial Market Outlook for Africa, projecting a need for 1,025 airplanes over the next two decades. Notably, over 70% of these deliveries are anticipated to be single-aisle jets, reflecting the growing demand for narrow-body aircraft. Africa’s air-traffic growth is forecast at 7.4% through 2042, surpassing the global average growth rate, indicating the region’s pivotal role in the future of aviation.
The commitment of Ethiopian Airlines to Boeing products, spanning over 75 years, underscores the strength and resilience of their partnership. Boeing’s Senior Vice President of Commercial Sales and Marketing, Brad McMullen, expressed appreciation for Ethiopian Airlines’ confidence in Boeing’s products and the robustness of their relationship.
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The Ethiopian Airlines and Boeing deal at the Dubai Airshow 2023 stands as a historic milestone, symbolizing not only a significant aircraft order but a strategic alignment between a leading African carrier and a global aviation giant. This collaboration not only elevates Ethiopian Airlines’ status as a major player in the aviation industry but also sets the stage for a new era of growth, efficiency, and environmental consciousness in African aviation. As the aviation landscape evolves, this deal serves as a beacon, guiding the way for other carriers and manufacturers to shape the future of air travel on the continent.
