Ethiopian Airlines has ordered eight Boeing 777-8 Freighters and two 777 Freighters in Addis Ababa, becoming the first African carrier to buy the 777-8 Freighter. The deal expands the airline’s cargo fleet as it responds to rising freight demand across its international network.
The new aircraft will complement Ethiopian’s existing freighter operation, which already includes 12 777 Freighters, two 767 Freighters and four 737-800SF aircraft. Boeing said the 777-8 Freighter offers the highest payload and range capability in its class, with a maximum structural payload of 118 tonnes. The order also broadens Boeing’s freighter backlog with one of Africa’s most established cargo operators.
The purchase is Ethiopian Airlines’ second for the 777X family, following an earlier order for eight 777-9 passenger jets. Boeing said the new freighters will support the carrier’s cargo network across more than 70 markets in Africa, Asia, Europe, the Middle East and North America. The two 777 Freighters provide near-term capacity, while the 777-8Fs extend the fleet’s longer-range growth profile.