Ethiopian Airlines Confirms Order for Nine Boeing 787-9 Dreamliners to Boost Global Connectivity
Ethiopian Airlines Group, Africa’s leading carrier, has confirmed the purchase of nine Boeing 787-9 Dreamliner aircraft, with deliveries scheduled between 2031 and 2033, in a strategic move aimed at expanding its route network and strengthening its international connectivity.
The latest acquisition forms part of the airline’s long-term fleet expansion and modernisation strategy, designed to provide passengers with greater flexibility, improved comfort and enhanced connectivity across its global network.
The order follows Ethiopian Airlines’ earlier commitment for 11 Boeing 737 MAX aircraft announced at the Dubai Airshow, with both the 787 and 737 MAX purchases finalised in December 2025.
Together, the deals boost the airline’s order book by 20 fuel-efficient Boeing aircraft.
Speaking on the development, Ethiopian Airlines Group Chief Executive Officer, Mr Mesfin Tasew, said the additional Dreamliners underscore the carrier’s commitment to operating a modern and environmentally responsible fleet.
“We are pleased to confirm the order for nine Boeing 787 Dreamliner aircraft to further expand our existing fleet,” Mr Tasew said. “This order underscores our continued commitment to enhancing our fleet with modern, fuel-efficient aircraft, thereby further strengthening our customer service. We will continue to acquire more aircraft and adopt the latest technologies as part of our strategic vision to advance sustainable aviation.”
Ethiopian Airlines currently operates Africa’s largest Boeing 787 Dreamliner fleet, deploying its 787-8 and 787-9 aircraft on intercontinental services from its Addis Ababa hub to high-demand destinations across Europe, Asia and North America, as well as on key intra-African routes spanning the continent.
Reacting to the order, Boeing’s Vice President of Commercial Sales and Marketing for Africa, Mr Anbessie Yitbarek, described the 787 Dreamliner as a transformative aircraft for global aviation.
“The 787 Dreamliner family has proven to be a game-changer for airlines around the world, and we are proud to support Ethiopian Airlines in their mission to connect Africa with the global community,” he said. “Together, we look forward to shaping the future of air travel with advanced, efficient and comfortable airplanes to serve their passengers.”
With the latest agreement, Ethiopian Airlines’ total number of Boeing 787-9 aircraft on order has risen to 20. In addition, the airline holds significant firm orders, options and purchase rights for Boeing 737 MAX and Boeing 777X aircraft, further underlining its robust long-term growth plans.
Beyond fleet expansion, Ethiopian Airlines Group is also pursuing major infrastructure development and modernisation initiatives, most notably the groundbreaking of the Bishoftu International Mega Airport City.
The ambitious project is expected to be transformative for African aviation, enhancing capacity, efficiency and connectivity, while reinforcing Ethiopian Airlines’ position as a key player in the global aviation industry.
