Ethiopian Airlines has signed a Memorandum of Understanding with planemaker Boeing to buy five 777-8 Freighters at discounted rates, as part of its compensation deal with the U.S. manufacturer.
The Boeing order will enable Africa's leading carrier to meet its expanding global cargo demand for freight from its hub in Addis Ababa as well as providing a base for long-term sustainable growth, explained group CEO Tewolde Gebremariam: “Consistent with our history of aviation technology leadership in Africa, we are pleased to sign this MoU with our longstanding partner Boeing, which will make us join select group of launch customer airlines for the fleet. In our vision 2035, we are planning to expand our Cargo and Logistics business to be one of the largest global multimodal logistics provider in all continents, To this effect, we are increasing our dedicated Freighter fleet with the latest technology, fuel-efficient and environment-friendly aeroplanes of the 21st century. We have also started the construction of the largest E-commerce Hub Terminal in Africa.”
Boeing launched the new 777-8 Freighter in January and has, according to its media department, already recorded 34 firm orders which is said to feature the advanced technology from the new 777X family.
“Ethiopian Airlines has been at the forefront of Africa’s cargo market for decades, growing its fleet of Boeing freighters and connecting the continent to the flow of global commerce,” said Ihssane Mounir, senior vice president of Commercial Sales and Marketing.
Ethiopian Airlines currently operates nine 777 Freighters, connecting Africa with more than 40 cargo centres throughout Asia, Europe, the Middle East and the Americas. The carrier’s fleet also includes three 737-800 Boeing Converted Freighters and a combined commercial fleet of more than 80 Boeing jets including 737s, 767s, 787s and 777s.
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