Ethiopian Airlines orders nine Boeing 787-9 Dreamliners, finalises 11 737 MAX purchase

Boeing and Ethiopian Airlines have confirmed an order for nine Boeing 787-9 Dreamliners, reinforcing the African carrier’s long-haul growth strategy amid rising global travel demand. The order, finalised in December 2025, complements Ethiopian’s previously announced purchase of 11 additional 737 MAX aircraft, bringing its latest Boeing commitments to 20 aircraft.

The 787-9 jets will support the expansion of Ethiopian Airlines’ international network, which already spans 145 global destinations. The airline operates Africa’s largest 787 fleet, deploying 787-8 and 787-9 aircraft on intercontinental routes linking Addis Ababa with Europe, Asia, North America and key intra-African markets.

Ethiopian Airlines Group CEO Mesfin Tasew said the order reflects the airline’s continued focus on modern, fuel-efficient aircraft to enhance customer service and advance sustainable aviation objectives.

Boeing highlighted the 787 Dreamliner’s role as a “game-changer,” noting its 25% reduction in fuel use and emissions compared with the aircraft it replaces, as well as its flexibility for passenger and cargo operations. Since entering service in 2011, the 787 family has enabled more than 520 new nonstop routes worldwide and carried over one billion passengers.

Ethiopian Airlines remains Boeing’s largest airline customer in Africa and holds the continent’s biggest backlog for 737 MAX, 777X and 787 Dreamliner aircraft.