Ethiopian Airlines, Africa's leading and most profitable carrier, is poised for a significant expansion of its domestic fleet, planning to acquire at least 20 regional or small narrowbody aircraft. This strategic move aims to both meet surging travel demand and facilitate the retirement of older planes, solidifying the airline's position as a dominant force in African aviation.

The Addis Ababa-based airline is currently in the evaluation phase, considering a trio of prominent models: the Airbus A220, the Embraer E2 family, and the Boeing 737 MAX 7. The final quantity of aircraft purchased will hinge on the specific model selected, according to a report by Reuters. Notably, the Boeing 737 MAX 7 offers a larger seating capacity, though its certification process is still pending.

This substantial fleet upgrade comes at a critical juncture for Ethiopian Airlines. While experiencing a robust increase in both passenger and cargo traffic, the airline is simultaneously grappling with significant operational challenges. These include persistent delivery delays from aircraft manufacturers and broader global supply chain disruptions, which have led to several of its planes being grounded due to engine shortages.

Mesfin Tasew Bekele, CEO of Ethiopian Airlines, addressed these challenges at the recent IATA annual meeting, stating, "We are receiving airplanes from both Boeing and Airbus, but deliveries have been delayed, some by three months, some six months, some more." These delays have intensified pressure on the airline's operations as it strives to keep pace with rising demand.

While Ethiopian Airlines' fleet is predominantly composed of Boeing aircraft, the ongoing delivery delays from the U.S. manufacturer have posed considerable operational hurdles. As recently as April 2024, the airline was still awaiting deliveries of ordered 737 MAX jets and 777 freighters. To mitigate the impact of these supply chain issues, which followed a significant 2023 order for 11 Boeing 787 Dreamliners and 20 Boeing 737 MAX jets, Ethiopian Airlines resorted to leasing aircraft beginning in August 2024.

This renewed push for additional aircraft is a key component of Ethiopian Airlines' overarching strategy for infrastructure growth, underscoring its commitment to expanding its network and enhancing its service capabilities across Africa and beyond. The airline's proactive approach in navigating these complex market dynamics will be crucial in maintaining its competitive edge and realizing its ambitious growth objectives.