Ethiopian Airlines, Africa’s largest and leading airline group, and its longtime partner, The Boeing Company, have announced plans to order 11 787 Dreamliner and 20 737 MAX aircraft, with opportunities for 15 and 21 aircraft, respectively, for a total of 67 Boeing Jets. The agreement, signed by Ethiopian Airlines at the Dubai Airshow, is the largest Boeing aircraft purchase in Africa’s history.
Ethiopian Airlines CEO Statement
Mr. Mesfin Tasew, Group Chief Executive Officer of Ethiopian Airlines, said: “We are pleased to announce that Ethiopian Airlines has entered into an agreement with The Boeing Company to finalize the purchase of 31 ultra-modern aircraft, with the opportunity to purchase an additional 36. The 787 Dreamliner and the 737 MAX exemplify Ethiopian’s environmental decisions as well as its commitment to using technologically advanced, state-of-the-art aircraft for the benefit of passengers. The 787 Dreamliner and 737 MAX fully reflect Ethiopian’s environmental decisions and commitment to serving its passengers with the latest technologically advanced airplanes.
Benefits of Ordering
The 787-9 model ordered by Ethiopian Airlines is part of the Dreamliner family, which consumes 25 percent less fuel and emits 25 percent fewer emissions than the aircraft it replaces. In addition, the airline has added the 737-8 model, which consumes 20 percent less fuel and has a 50 percent lower noise footprint than the aircraft it replaces. Both families of aircraft bring improved environmental performance and passenger comfort to their respective markets.
Strengthening and diversifying Ethiopian Airlines’ fleet
Ethiopian currently operates a fleet of more than 80 Boeing aircraft, and the new commitment further strengthens and diversifies its fleet. Ethiopian has the largest Dreamliner fleet in Africa, which includes the 787-8 and 787-9. The new 737 MAX order, which will increase the airline’s backlog of fuel-efficient airplanes to 50, will be posted on Boeing’s Orders & Deliveries Web site when the order is finalized.
Ethiopian Airlines 787 Dreamliner Cabin Conversion Service
Boeing and Ethiopian Airlines have also agreed to work together to provide cabin modification services for the airline’s existing 787 Dreamliner. The full retrofit will enhance the passenger experience by equipping all cabins with advanced in-flight entertainment systems and new seats, including lie-flat business class seats manufactured by Boeing’s joint venture Andalto Aerospace.
Boeing statement
“Ethiopian Airlines continues its leadership as one of Africa’s preeminent airlines with this landmark commitment to expand its 787 and 737 MAX fleet,” said Brad McMullen, Boeing’s senior vice president for commercial sales and marketing. Ethiopian was the first African airline to take delivery of the 787 model of the Dreamliner family, which continues to play an integral role in its long-haul fleet. With decades of experience operating single-aisle and wide-body jets, we are grateful for Ethiopian Airlines’ confidence in our product and the strong relationship we have built over more than 75 years of working together”.