Ethiopian Airlines will confirm its selection for 25 new narrowbody aircraft by August 2026, narrowing the field to the Airbus A220-300, Boeing 737 MAX 7, or Embraer E195-E2. Chief Commercial Officer Lemma Yadecha confirmed the carrier is conducting a final evaluation of technical and financial parameters across the three contenders. The order may include options for 10 additional units, potentially reaching 35 aircraft to modernize the fleet and expand regional connectivity across Africa. A public announcement could coincide with the Farnborough Air Show beginning 20 July 2026. This decision determines which manufacturer secures a major foothold in the African next-generation narrowbody market, with freighter decisions on up to 16 units pending separately.