Ethiopian Airlines Orders Six Boeing 787-9 Dreamliners

Boeing and Ethiopian Airlines have announced an order for six additional 787-9 Dreamliner aircraft, as the airline exercises options from its landmark 2023 agreement. The widebody jets will support Ethiopian Airlines’ long-haul expansion strategy from Addis Ababa while boosting cargo capacity to meet rising global demand.

The deal underscores Ethiopian Airlines’ continued growth trajectory and commitment to fleet modernization. The carrier plans to deploy the new 787-9 aircraft across its intercontinental network, strengthening connectivity between Africa and key markets in Europe, Asia, and North America.

Speaking on the order, Ethiopian Airlines Group CEO Mesfin Tasew said converting the options into a firm purchase marks a significant milestone for the airline. He emphasized that the addition of next-generation aircraft will enhance operational efficiency while improving passenger comfort, reinforcing the airline’s long-term growth strategy.

Ethiopian Airlines already operates Africa’s largest fleet of 787 Dreamliners, including both the 787-8 and 787-9 variants. These aircraft form the backbone of its long-haul operations, connecting Addis Ababa to high-demand global destinations as well as supporting key intra-African routes.

Boeing highlighted the importance of the partnership, noting that the 787 Dreamliner continues to play a central role in Ethiopian Airlines’ fleet as it expands routes and increases capacity. The aircraft’s fuel efficiency and operational flexibility enable airlines to open new long-haul markets while maintaining lower operating costs.

The 787-9 Dreamliner is known for its extended range, advanced aerodynamics, and reduced fuel consumption compared to older-generation widebody aircraft. These features allow Ethiopian Airlines to operate more efficiently on long-distance routes while also carrying significant cargo volumes in the aircraft’s belly hold, supporting trade flows across global markets.

Ethiopian Airlines Group is one of the fastest-growing aviation brands globally and the leading airline group in Africa. The carrier serves more than 145 international destinations and operates a fleet of over 170 modern aircraft with an average age of approximately seven years. As a member of the Star Alliance, Ethiopian continues to expand its network and strengthen its role as a key connector between Africa and the rest of the world.

Ethiopian Airlines Widebody Fleet in 2026

Ethiopian Airlines’ widebody fleet in 2026 can be identified from available 2026 fleet listings and confirmed aircraft orders. The counts below reflect in‑service aircraft only, not orders.

Airbus A350‑900 in‑service 22
Airbus A350‑1000 in‑service 4
Boeing 777‑200LR in‑service 6
Boeing 777‑300ER in‑service 5
Boeing 787‑8 in‑service 20
Boeing 787‑9 in‑service 10

The latest order reinforces the airline’s position as a major long-haul operator and highlights ongoing demand for fuel-efficient widebody aircraft in a recovering global aviation market.

Sources: AirGuide Business airguide.info, bing.com, boeing.com