Ethiopian Airlines Commits to 11 Additional Boeing 737 MAX Jets to Drive Fleet Expansion
Ethiopian Airlines has announced a major fleet expansion plan with a fresh commitment to acquire 11 additional Boeing 737 MAX aircraft, further consolidating its position as Africa’s largest airline and a dominant force in global aviation.
The agreement for the 11 B737-8 jets was formally signed at the Dubai Airshow, marking yet another milestone in the long-standing partnership between the airline and Boeing.
Speaking at the signing ceremony, Ethiopian Airlines Group Chief Executive Officer, Mr Mesfin Tasew, described the new order as a strategic move that aligns with the airline’s broader growth ambitions.
“We are thrilled to be announcing our agreement with Boeing for additional 11 B737-8 aeroplanes today during the Dubai Airshow,” he said. “The order will support our growth plans that we have set as part of our vision and strategy. We are happy that our partnership with Boeing continues to grow over the years and we look forward to flying Boeing aeroplanes for years to come, and we will continue to serve our customers by bringing them high-performance aeroplanes with passenger comfort.”
The additional 737 MAX aircraft will bolster Ethiopian Airlines’ ability to serve its extensive regional and international networks. The carrier currently utilises the efficiency, reliability, and range of the 737 MAX on key routes across Africa, the Middle East, India, and Southern Europe – markets where quick turnarounds, operational efficiency, and flight frequency are essential to meet growing passenger demand.
Brad McMullen, Boeing’s Senior Vice President of Commercial Sales and Marketing, praised the airline’s continued confidence in the aircraft manufacturer.
“Ethiopian Airlines’ commitment to expand its 737 MAX fleet underscores its leadership in Africa. Our new agreement also strengthens our nearly 80-year partnership with the airline and region,” he said. “We are proud that our efficient and versatile aeroplanes will continue to play a pivotal role in Ethiopian Airlines’ growth as they further connect the African continent and the world.”
Ethiopian Airlines currently operates the largest Boeing fleet in Africa and holds the biggest backlog of Boeing aircraft on the continent, including 737 MAX, 787 Dreamliner, and the next-generation 777X models.
Boeing, a leading global aerospace company and major U.S. exporter, designs, manufactures, and supports commercial aircraft, defence platforms, and space systems for customers in more than 150 countries.
The company emphasises innovation, sustainability, and community impact, guided by core values of safety, quality, and integrity.
The latest order reinforces Ethiopian Airlines’ commitment to modernising its fleet, improving operational efficiency, and enhancing passenger experience, while strengthening its role as a central connector between Africa and the world.
