Ethiopian Airlines Welcomes Africa's First A350-1000 Aircraft

Ethiopian Airlines, has welcomed the arrival of Africa’s first Airbus A350-1000. This significant milestone was celebrated in a grand ceremony attended by government officials, ambassadors, diplomats, and esteemed representatives from Airbus and Thales.

The aircraft landed at Addis Ababa Bole International Airport, basking in a warm welcome marked by a spectacular water cannon salute. Accompanying this momentous delivery was a payload of medical supplies valued at over 100,000 Euros, generously donated to the Ethiopian Airlines Foundation by Aviation Sans Frontières in collaboration with Airbus.

Upon its arrival from Toulouse, France, the celebrations continued with a demonstration flight, inviting distinguished guests to experience the aircraft’s capabilities while enjoying stunning views of the Grand Ethiopian Renaissance Dam.

Commenting on this historic occasion, Ethiopian Airlines Group CEO Mr. Mesfin Tasew expressed, “We are thrilled to welcome the Airbus A350-1000 to our fleet, solidifying our position as leaders in aviation technology. This aircraft embodies cutting-edge advancements, offering superior passenger comfort, enhanced fuel efficiency, and reduced environmental impact. Together, we are pioneering a sustainable future for aviation in Africa.”

This state-of-the-art aircraft is the first to feature Thales's AVANT Up inflight entertainment system and the HBC+ connectivity system, providing travellers with luxurious amenities, spacious seating, large screens, and a unique landscape camera. With direct aisle access for all business class seats, convenience is prioritized.

The A350-1000 boasts a revolutionary design with innovative aerodynamics and a carbon-fibre fuselage, powered by the fuel-efficient Rolls-Royce Trent XWB engines, ensuring a quieter, smoother journey for long-haul travel. This launch marks a transformative moment for Ethiopian Airlines and sets new standards for the African aviation sector, aligning with the airline's ambitious Vision 2035 plan.

Ethiopian Airlines is excited to welcome three additional A350-1000 aircraft in the upcoming months, further enhancing its modern fleet and commitment to passenger excellence.

With the addition of the A350-1000, Ethiopian Airlines reaffirms its commitment to innovation, sustainability, and customer satisfaction, charting a new course for African aviation excellence.

Ethiopian Airlines Commences a New Passenger Service to Bangladesh

Ethiopian Airlines has started a new passenger service to Dhaka, Bangladesh, with the first flight celebrated with a special colourful event that brought together the Ambassador of Bangladesh to Ethiopia, high-ranking officials, and Ethiopian Airlines’ executives.

The new route is operated six times a week, providing convenient travel options between Bangladesh and the vast Ethiopian global network. The flights will also create a significant socio-economic link between Africa and Southern Asia.

Mr Mesfin Tasew, Group CEO of Ethiopian Airlines, remarked, “We are pleased to directly connect Dhaka to the rest of Ethiopian Airlines global network. This route shall provide seamless connections to passengers travelling between South Asia and Africa, and beyond. With our new flight to Dhaka, our nations become closer to each other than ever.” 

Dhaka, the bustling capital of Bangladesh, is known for having history, culture, architecture, tradition, and lively markets in a perfect blend. The new Ethiopian Airlines flights will offer seamless travel options to both business and leisure travellers. The airline's modern fleet, award-winning service, and vast network will also cater for a memorable flight experience.  

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Ethiopian Airlines takes delivery of Africa’s first Airbus A350-1000

Ethiopia’s national flag carrier and largest Airbus operator in Africa, Ethiopian Airlines, has taken delivery of its first of four A350-1000s from Airbus in Toulouse, France. The first of its kind to be operated by an African-based operator. The A350-1000 jet will enable Ethiopian Airlines to enhance its premium service to key destinations including Washington D.C., London, Paris and Frankfurt.

Ethiopian Airlines currently operates a fleet of 21 A350 family aircraft and a total of 14 additional A350 aircraft are set to join the airline’s fleet in the coming years, including 11 A350-900 and three additional A350-1000. The A350-1000 will provide great operational commonality with the A350-900 fleet, ensuring seamless integration with shared pilots and mechanics simplifying training and maintenance processes.

With a total capacity of 395 seats, the A350-1000 will increase Ethiopian Airlines’ passenger capacity and provide enhanced passenger experience in the largest business class cabin in the airline’s fleet. Ethiopian Airlines will also introduce Airbus' new HBCplus satcom connectivity solution, offering seamless, high-speed gate-to-gate connectivity.

Ethiopian Airlines awards design consultancy contract for Ethiopia’s new global hub airport to a consortium led by Dar and Zaha Hadid Architects

Ethiopian Airlines Group has announced plans to build Africa’s largest airport in Abusera – a critical element of Ethiopian’s 15-year strategic plan to become one of the most competitive aviation groups in the world.

The airport’s location allows for progressive growth, empowering the airline to meet the International Air Transport Association’s forecasts of more than 200% growth over the next decade – growing beyond Bole International Airport, which offers no possibilities for significant expansion. Abusera’s lower altitude will elevate aircraft take-off performance, while an express rail link to Addis Ababa facilitates connectivity.

In its first phase scheduled for 2029, the airport will have capacity for 60 million passengers annually – almost three times Africa’s current busiest airport – creating thousands of jobs to serve Ethiopian’s expanding customer base and fleet. Ultimately, the airport will serve 110 million passengers annually – four times the capacity of Bole International Airport.

Ethiopian’s CEO Mesfin Tasew stated: “With its exceptional capacity and world-class facilities, this new airport promises to elevate African aviation.”

Ethiopian Airlines signs deal for design of 'biggest airport in Africa'

Ethiopia has signed an agreement for the design of a new four-runway airport that will be Africa's biggest when construction is completed in 2029, the head of state-owned Ethiopian Airlines said on Friday.

Located near the town of Bishoftu, around 45 km (28 miles) from the capital Addis Ababa, the airport will have capacity to handle 100 million passengers a year and provide parking for 270 aircraft, Ethiopian Airlines' CEO Mesfin Tasew told a news conference.

Dubai-based engineering and consulting firm Sidara will design the airport, the company's director of operations Tariq Al Qanni said.

Plans to build the airport were first announced in 2018.  Mesfin said Bole Addis Ababa International Airport, the current main hub for Africa's biggest airline, will soon reach its capacity of serving 25 million passengers per year.

"It is a five-year project (that) will be finalised in 2029. It will be the biggest in Africa," Mesfin said.

"Phase one alone will cost at least $6 billion... The money will come through loans and there are already companies that already showed interest."

Ethiopian Airlines carried 17 million passengers in the 2023/2024 financial year, and expects to carry 20 million passengers in the financial year that started in July.

By Dawit Endeshaw

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Ethiopian MRO Services to set up ATR aircraft maintenance and training capabilities

ATR, the world’s number one regional aircraft manufacturer, and Ethiopian MRO Services, a world-class maintenance and training provider, part of the Ethiopian Airlines Group, announced the signature of a Letter of Intent aimed at developing Ethiopian MRO Services’s ATR aircraft maintenance and training capabilities. This strategic agreement marks a significant milestone in expanding ATR’s presence in Africa and the Middle East, enabling enhanced support to local operators and fostering market growth.

The cooperation would cover the development of Ethiopian MRO Services’s maintenance capabilities for ATR aircraft types and the establishment of a local spares’ stock to reduce response time for ATR operators in the region. It would also explore collaborative ways to train new ATR pilots with the Ethiopian Aviation University, the most modern aviation guru.

With its extensive aircraft maintenance and repair capability, an international network for seamless spare parts delivery, multiple hubs across the continent, and an aviation training university, Ethiopian MRO Services is a key player in the aftermarket and the ideal local partner to cater to the needs of the 36 airlines operating 131 ATR aircraft across Africa and the Middle East. 

Sustainable Skies: Ethiopian Airlines' sings MoU with Satarem for a new era of eco-friendly travel

Ethiopian Airlines Group has signed a Memorandum of Understanding (MOU) with Satarem America Inc. to partner on production and use of Sustainable Aviation Fuel (SAF) in Ethiopia. Satarem shall produce SAF in the country, and Ethiopian Airlines has agreed to acquire the SAF from Satarem. With this MoU, Ethiopian Airlines Group has solidified its commitment to sustainability. This strategic partnership marks a significant step Ethiopian Airlines is taking towards a more sustainable and environmentally friendly future.

The MoU with Satarem America Inc., a leading provider of sustainable energy solutions, will enable Ethiopian Airlines Group to incorporate SAF into its operations, thereby significantly reducing carbon emissions and supporting global efforts to combat climate change. SAF is a cleaner alternative to traditional jet fuel, produced from sustainable feedstocks that can lower greenhouse gas emissions.

Regarding the move, Mr. Mesfin Tasew, Chief Executive Officer of Ethiopian Airlines Group said, "We are excited to partner with Satarem America Inc in our journey towards a greener and more sustainable future. The adoption of Sustainable Aviation Fuel is not just a business decision; it reflects our commitment to combating climate change and investing in innovative solutions that support a sustainable industry.”

This partnership with Satarem America Inc. reaffirms Ethiopian Airlines’ position as a pioneer in adopting eco-friendly aviation solutions, demonstrating its commitment to maintaining high standards of environmental performance and contributing to the broader sustainability goals of the aviation industry.

Ethiopian inaugurates the new Jinka Airport Terminal

Ethiopian Airlines Group

the largest airline group in Africa, inaugurates its Jinka airport project, unveiling a new terminal and support facility buildings. The new state-of-the-art airport terminal is now open for service, following a grand celebration held today in Jinka, one of the emerging cities in the South Ethiopia Regional State.

The two-and-a-half-year project covered the construction of a new terminal building having a total built-up area of 3,500 square meters, support facility building, and external facilities including exclusive VIP parking area and other facilities.    

Regarding the inauguration of the new Jinka Airport, Ethiopian Airlines Group CEO Mr. Mesfin Tasew said, “We are truly delighted to witness the completion of the brand new Jinka Airport Terminal Building project that has been under construction for the last few years. As a national flag carrier, Ethiopian is playing its part in the country’s aviation transformation and Jinka is our latest contribution to Ethiopia’s modern aviation facility. The new Jinka airport will further offer a comfortable travel experience to/from the city thereby boosting trade and tourism in the region and beyond. Committed to enhancing customer experience, we will continue to invest in renovation and upgrading of domestic airports.” 

Following the finalization of the project with an investment cost of more than 8 million Euro for construction, Jinka Airport Terminal is now equipped with modern passenger service areas including departure and VIP lounges and other facilities that will enhance customer experience. 

The completion of the airport will help Ethiopian offer an upgraded customer services to its passengers to/from the city. It also creates a comfortable experience to tourists traveling to southern Ethiopia to visit the exotic people, culture, and nature of the region.

At its hub, Addis Ababa Bole International Airport, Ethiopian Airlines offers seamless transit and stopover services, creating an opportunity for passengers who have lay over to enjoy the beauty of Addis Ababa, the diplomatic capital of African.

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Ethiopian Airlines Turns 78

Ethiopian Airlines Group, Africa's largest airline group, has marked its 78th anniversary, highlighting a legacy of resilience and innovation since 1946. Group Chief Executive Officer Mr. Mesfin Tassew and Chief Commercial Officer Mr. Lemma Yadecha accompanied the crew on a flight to Cairo, marking the airline's inaugural international service. Their involvement extended beyond in-flight duties, as they also provided assistance to passengers during check-in and boarding processes, ensuring a seamless travel experience.

Regarding the occasion Ethiopian Airlines Group CEO Mr. Mesfin Tasew said, “This event symbolizes our unwavering commitment to our passengers and our belief that true leadership lies in serving others first. Serving our passengers on this special flight to Cairo is not just a tribute to our first international service but a reaffirmation of our commitment to the ethos of servant leadership. From our humble beginning back in 1946, we’ve come to be the aviation giant in Africa that we are now, pioneering the African aviation with many first aviation innovation introductions to Africa along the way. As we are maturing beautifully, our commitment only gets stronger.”

In line with Ethiopian's values of community engagement, passengers received Seasons Greeting Packages and Happy Fasting Messages, reflecting the airline's respect for diverse traditions. The packages included a postcard commemorating the anniversary, serving as a tangible reminder of the airline's enduring legacy.

Maun becomes Ethiopian's second Botswana destination

Ethiopian Airlines Group, one of the fastest-growing global airline brands and Africa’s largest airline, has confirmed it will launch a service between  Addis Ababa, Ethiopia, and Maun, Botswana from  10th June 2024. 

Maun will be Ethiopian's second destination in Botswana after Gaborone, which has been served since 2016, the airline will fly the route three times a week. 

The new route will provide convenient and seamless connectivity for travellers from  Ethiopia and other parts of Africa to the popular tourist destination of Maun, which is the gateway to the Okavango Delta, a UNESCO World Heritage Site and one of the world's largest inland deltas.  

Regarding the commencement of the new flight services, Ethiopian Airlines Group CEO Mr Mesfin Tasew said, “We are delighted to include Maun, the tourism capital of Botswana, to our ever-expanding African network. The addition of Maun into our African connectivity enables travellers from Maun to enjoy facilitated connectivity to Ethiopian vast global network that exceeds  135 destinations. Maun is a strategic addition to our network as it will enable us to offer our customers a unique opportunity to explore the natural beauty and rich biodiversity of Botswana.  Our new service does not only strengthen the tourism, trade and the overall socio-economic ties between Botswana and Ethiopian global destinations, it also enables us to strengthen our  contribution in realizing the development of air transport in the African continent.”

Ethiopian champions the largest network operating to more than 60 destinations in the continent. Ethiopian Airlines managed to establish a convenient intra-Africa and global connections via its main hub in Addis Ababa, playing its part in the growth of the aviation industry in Africa.  

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Boeing and Ethiopian Airlines agree deal for 8 Boeing 777-9 jets.

Ethiopian Airlines has agreed to purchase eight Boeing 777-9 passenger aircraft with options for 12 additional jets.

Boeing and Ethiopian Airlines confirmed the agreement on Tuesday,  Mesfin Tasew, Ethiopian Airlines Group CEO said:  "We are pleased to continue setting the trend in African aviation by adopting cutting-edge technologies to enhance our services and customer satisfaction. Improving our operational performance and commitment to environmental sustainability, the 777-9 offers more flexibility, reduced fuel consumption and carbon emissions," 

He added: "We are grateful to Boeing for their long-standing partnership and support, and we eagerly anticipate flying the 777-9 across the African skies and beyond."

Based on the 777 and with advanced technologies from the 787 Dreamliner family, the 777-9 features new carbon-fibre composite wings and engines that will enable the aeroplane to achieve 10% better fuel efficiency and operating costs than the competition. The 777-9 will support Ethiopian Airlines' plans to grow and renew its fleet in size, range and passenger and cargo capacity to reach high-demand markets in Africa, Asia, Europe and North America.

Ethiopian Airlines has agreed to purchase eight Boeing 777-9 passenger aircraft

Ethiopian Airlines has agreed to purchase eight Boeing 777-9 passenger aircraft with options for 12 additional jets.

Boeing and Ethiopian Airlines confirmed the agreement on Tuesday,  Mesfin Tasew, Ethiopian Airlines Group CEO said:  "We are pleased to continue setting the trend in African aviation by adopting cutting-edge technologies to enhance our services and customer satisfaction. Improving our operational performance and commitment to environmental sustainability, the 777-9 offers more flexibility, reduced fuel consumption and carbon emissions," 

He added: "We are grateful to Boeing for their long-standing partnership and support, and we eagerly anticipate flying the 777-9 across the African skies and beyond."

Based on the 777 and with advanced technologies from the 787 Dreamliner family, the 777-9 features new carbon-fibre composite wings and engines that will enable the aeroplane to achieve 10% better fuel efficiency and operating costs than the competition. The 777-9 will support Ethiopian Airlines' plans to grow and renew its fleet in size, range and passenger and cargo capacity to reach high-demand markets in Africa, Asia, Europe and North America.

"Ethiopian Airlines marks yet another first in our longstanding partnership by selecting the 777-9 to be the flagship of its growing fleet," said Brad McMullen, Boeing senior vice president of Commercial Sales and Marketing.

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Ethiopian inaugurates the first of its kind e-commerce logistics facility at Bole International Airport

The facility positions Addis Ababa to be the cross-border e-commerce logistics hub for Africa and beyond

Ethiopian Airlines Group, the largest airline group in Africa and one of the fastest-growing airline brands globally, proudly announced the launching of its state-of-the-art e-commerce logistics facility in a grand event recently. The Ethiopian e-commerce facility is located inside the Ethiopian Cargo & Logistics premises.

The newly built facility, which is dedicated to e-commerce, mail and courier logistics services is aimed at bridging logistical gaps and positioning Addis Ababa, Ethiopia, as the cross-border e-commerce logistics hub for Africa and beyond. Marking the unveiling of the new facility, Ethiopian Airlines Group CEO Mr. Mesfin Tasew said: "The inauguration of this cutting-edge e-commerce logistics facility is a significant breakthrough for Ethiopian Airlines Group and the entire African economy. We have implemented high-end technologies in the infrastructure that revolutionize the way goods are transported and delivered in the e-commerce industry in Africa. Through this facility, Ethiopian Airlines paves the way for the development of e-commerce services in Ethiopia and the African continent. Built on 15,000 square meters of area, the facility boasts a capacity to handle 150,000 tons annually. We are glad to witness that our investment of 55 million USD has indeed pay off and enabled us to set the e-commerce industry in the continent to follow the global trend.”

This e-commerce Logistics Facility is equipped with state-of-the-art technology and meticulously implemented systems; as a result, the facility will offer a range of services including consolidation, deconsolidation, sortation, repacking, labelling and more.

Ethiopian Airlines to start passenger services to Freetown

Discover Freetown with Ethiopian's new service via Ouagadougou

Ethiopian Airlines, the largest network operator in Africa, is pleased to announce  a launch of a thrice weekly passenger services to Freetown, Sierra Leone via Ouagadougou, Burkina Faso starting from 31st of May 2024. This new route marks yet another milestone in the airline's extensive network expansion endeavor, connecting more African countries and providing travelers with convenient and efficient travel options.

The new thrice weekly services to Freetown will be operated using the most modern and eco-friendly Boeing 787-800 aircraft, offering passengers a comfortable and enjoyable flight experience. The B787 is equipped with state-of-the-art amenities, including spacious seats, personal entertainment systems, and onboard Wi-Fi, ensuring a pleasant journey for all passengers. The flight schedule for the new service is as follows:

ET 943 Addis Ababa (ADD) Ouagadougou (OUA) Freetown (FNA) Tues, Thurs, Sat

ET 942 Freetown (FNA) Ouagadougou (OUA) Addis Ababa (ADD) Wed, Fri, Sun

Regarding the commencement of the new route Ethiopian Airlines Group CEO Mr. Mesfin Tasew said: “We are delighted to expand our West Africa network with the addition of Freetown, Sierra Leone. This new route, set to launch in May 2024, will not only provide our passengers with more options for travel, but also facilitate increased tourism, trade and investment opportunities between Ethiopia, Sierra Leone and Burkina Faso. As we continue to grow and connect with more destinations, we are committed to fostering cooperation and partnership between our countries.”

Ethiopian GODE UGAAS MIRAAD Airport Terminal Project Receives a Grand Inauguration

Passengers in Somali Regional State of Ethiopia can now travel between  Gode and Jigjiga more Comfortably 

 

Ethiopian Airlines Group, the largest airline group in Africa, is pleased to announce the finalization of Gode Ugaas Miraad Airport Terminal building and aircraft parking with taxiway construction Project. The new state-of-the-art airport terminal has been opened for service in a grand inauguration in the presence of H.E. Dr. Abiy Ahmed Prime  Minister of Ethiopia and H.E Mustafe Mohammed Omer President of the Somali Regional  State. 

The project which took three years for completion has unveiled a new terminal building having a total built-up area of 3,500sq, a new apron having a capacity to handle four De  Havilland Q400 or B737 aircraft at a time, ancillary buildings such as airport rescue and firefighting station, water reservoir, and parking areas among others.  

Regarding the inauguration of the new passenger terminal, Ethiopian Airlines Group  CEO Mr Mesfin Tasew said, “We are truly pleased with the launching of Gode Ugaas Miraad  Airport Terminal building and aircraft parking with taxiway construction project as it will upgrade the airport experience of our passengers travelling to/from the city of Gode. It is also a step forward in the work we do to elevate our domestic airport facilities to a higher level. The inauguration of this new terminal showcases our commitment to enhance our domestic operations alongside our international ones. Gode will neither be the only nor the last airport we will work on constructing and/or renovating. Construction of similar airport terminal is progressing well at Jinka, Kombolcha, Goba/Robe and Bahir Dar airports. It is with great honour and pleasure that  we work on these projects and play our part in our country’s tourism and socio-economic growth.”  

The new state-of-the-art airport terminal is equipped with the latest technology airport facility amenities including a solar system to allow for a smooth and convenient travel via the airport.  

Ethiopian Airlines plays a significant role in regional connectivity with its more than 22  destinations in the country. Ethiopian Airlines operates daily flights to/from Gode. Gode being the third airport in Somali Regional State next to Jigjiga and Kebridahar, passengers can travel between Jigjiga and Gode directly without having to transit via Addis Ababa.  Gode Airport has been among the airports that Ethiopian has taken a project on to enhance the facilities.  

Since the acquisition of the Ethiopian Airports Enterprise by Ethiopian Airlines Group as a Strategic Business Unit (SBU) in 2017, Ethiopian Airlines Group has taken over the administrative role including construction and renovation projects of airports in the country. 

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Ethiopian Airlines signs MoU for 11 Airbus A350-900s jets

Ethiopian’s flagship carrier, Ethiopian Airlines Group, has signed a memorandum of understanding (MoU) for 11 additional Airbus A350-900s to be added to its existing fleet. The latest agreement takes Ethiopian Airlines’ total order book and commitment for the A350 to 33, including four A350-1000s.

Ethiopian Airlines currently operates a fleet of 20 A350-900s and with this commitment, it will confirm its position as Africa's biggest A350 customer.

The signing of the MoU took place at Dubai Airshow in the presence of Ethiopian Airlines Group CEO Mr. Mesfin Tasew and Airbus Chief Commercial Officer and Head of International, Christian Scherer.

Ethiopian Airlines Group CEO Mr. Mesfin Tasew said, “We are excited to place this commitment for 11 Airbus A350-900s. As a customer focused airline, we are particularly excited for this fleet as it offers extra comfort to passengers with its features like the quietest cabin in its class and ambient lighting. We are keen to expand our fleet size, acquiring the latest technology aircraft to offer a convenient and memorable onboard experience to our esteemed passengers.”

 

Ethiopian and Boeing working on deal for 31 aircraft - plus options.

At the Dubai Air Show this week Ethiopian Airlines has agreed to buy more Boeing jets to fulfil its long-term fleet goals.  The African carrier has confirmed it will order 11 787 Dreamliner and 20 737 MAX aircraft. Sources close to the deal say the airline is paying less than half the list price for each of the MAX aircraft, but the final Dreamliner price is still being negotiated. 

Ethiopian Airlines Group CEO Mr Mesfin Tasew said,  "We are pleased to announce that Ethiopian Airlines has reached a deal with Boeing to place a firm order for 31 ultra-modern aeroplanes, with the opportunity for 36 additional jets.  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 aeroplanes."

Boeing and Ethiopian Airlines also agreed to work together to provide cabin modification services for the carrier's existing 787 Dreamliners. The retrofits are designed to enhance the passenger experience with advanced in-flight entertainment and new seats in all cabins, including lie-flat business-class seats from Boeing's joint venture Adient Aerospace.

"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, Boeing senior vice president of Commercial Sales and Marketing.

Ethiopian Airlines orders more Boeing planes

At the Dubai Air Show this week Ethiopian Airlines has agreed to buy more Boeing jets to fulfil its long-term fleet goals.  The African carrier has confirmed it will order 11 787 Dreamliner and 20 737 MAX aircraft. Sources close to the deal say the airline is paying less than half the list price for each of the MAX aircraft, but the final Dreamliner price is still being negotiated. 

Ethiopian Airlines Group CEO Mr Mesfin Tasew said,  "We are pleased to announce that Ethiopian Airlines has reached a deal with Boeing to place a firm order for 31 ultra-modern aeroplanes, with the opportunity for 36 additional jets.  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 aeroplanes."

Boeing and Ethiopian Airlines also agreed to work together to provide cabin modification services for the carrier's existing 787 Dreamliners. The retrofits are designed to enhance the passenger experience with advanced in-flight entertainment and new seats in all cabins, including lie-flat business-class seats from Boeing's joint venture Adient Aerospace.

"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, Boeing senior vice president of Commercial Sales and Marketing.

Ethiopian Airlines gets a Boeing 737 jet on lease from BOC

BOC Aviation Limited confirmed this week that it has delivered a used Boeing 737-800 aircraft for lease to Ethiopian Airlines Group. The aircraft is powered by CFM56 engines.

“We are delighted to add Ethiopian, Africa’s largest carrier, as a new customer,” said Robert Martin, Managing Director and Chief Executive Officer, BOC Aviation. “This transaction builds on our position in the African market and supports Ethiopian’s expansion plans.”  

Ethiopian Airlines Group CEO Mr. Mesfin Tasew said, “Ethiopian Airlines is pleased to establish a new partnership with BOC Aviation and receive the Boeing 737-800 aircraft on lease. We will be deploying the new arrival to our strategic partner ASKY Airlines to enable it to expand its operation across and beyond its extensive West and Central Africa network. As a global airline, Ethiopian will eye for further partnership with BOC Aviation and other industry players.”    

Ethiopian Airlines increases Korea-Africa services with state-of-the-art Airbus A350-900 aircraft flying six times a week.

Ethiopian Airlines Group, the fastest-growing global airline brand and the continent’s largest airline has confirmed it will increase its weekly passenger flights to Seoul, Republic of Korea, to six, effective October 28, 2023. Ethiopian will also deploy the latest Airbus A350-900 aircraft on the route.

The increase in the frequency follows fruitful discussions between the aeronautical authorities of Korea and Ethiopia. The additional flights are evidence of the two countries expanding socio-economic relations and the growing multi-faceted partnership between Korea and the whole continent of Africa.

Regarding the flight enhancement, Ethiopian Airlines Group CEO Mr Mesfin Tasew said, “Ethiopian is the only African carrier connecting Seoul to the continent and beyond, and the additional frequencies will be significant in fostering economic, cultural, and social interactions providing more diverse and convenient connectivity options to travellers. As a pan-African carrier, it gives us pleasure to give additional flight options between Addis Ababa, the diplomatic capital of Africa, and Seoul, the rising hub of East Asia. We are especially thrilled by the opportunity to serve our esteemed passengers with the latest Airbus A350-900 modern aircraft. I take this occasion to sincerely express my gratitude to the Government of the Republic of Korea for supporting Ethiopian in enhancing its flight frequencies.”

Ethiopian Airlines has just marked its 10th-year services Anniversary to Seoul, and the flight enhancement is part of the celebrations of this special occasion. Seoul was the 73rd destination of Ethiopian Airlines ten years ago, and the airline has since nearly doubled its entry points with over 130 destinations serviced across five continents.