Ethiopian Airlines Group, Africa’s leading carrier, has confirmed the purchase of nine Boeing 787-9 aircraft, with deliveries scheduled between 2031 and 2033.
This strategic move aims to expand the airline’s route network, enhance international connectivity, and provide more flexible flight options for passengers.
The airline’s latest order follows its commitment to 11 Boeing 737 MAX jets announced at the Dubai Airshow, and the purchase was finalised in December 2025.
Ethiopian Airlines Group CEO, Mr. Mesfin Tasew, expressed his excitement about the new addition, saying, “we are pleased to confirm the order for nine Boeing 787 Dreamliner aircraft to further expand our existing fleet. This order underscores our continued commitment to enhancing our fleet with modern, fuel-efficient aircraft, thereby further strengthening our customer service”.
The airline operates Africa’s largest 787 Dreamliner fleet, flying its 787-8 and 787-9 jets on intercontinental routes to high-demand destinations across Europe, Asia, and North America, as well as key intra-African routes.
Boeing Vice President of Commercial Sales and Marketing for Africa, Mr. Anbessie Yitbarek, added, “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”.
This order brings Ethiopian Airlines’ total number of fuel-efficient Boeing 787-9 aircraft on order to 20, with significant firm orders, options, and purchase rights for Boeing 737 MAX and Boeing 777X aircraft.
The airline is also undertaking major expansion and modernisation initiatives, including the groundbreaking of the Bishoftu International Mega Airport City, a transformative project to reshape African aviation.