The deal makes Ethiopian Airlines the first carrier in Africa to order the Boeing 777-8F, a new-generation freighter that has yet to enter flight testing. Deliveries of the aircraft are expected to begin in 2029, according to Aviation Week's forthcoming forecast.
Under the agreement, the Ethiopian flag carrier will acquire eight 777-8F freighters and two 777F aircraft as it seeks to strengthen its cargo operations and accommodate growing demand across its international network.
The 777-8F is powered by two GE9X engines and is designed to combine high payload capacity with long-range operating capability. Boeing says the aircraft will have a maximum structural payload of 118 metric tons and a fully loaded range of approximately 4,410 nautical miles.
Ethiopian Airlines Chief Executive Officer Mesfin Tasew said the new aircraft would provide the airline with greater capacity and flexibility as it expands its role in global cargo transportation.
“The aircraft will offer greater payload capacity, operational flexibility, efficiency, and sustainability, and would help facilitate global trade, strengthen supply chain connectivity, and reinforce Ethiopia's position as a leading cargo gateway between Africa and international markets,” Tasew said.
The order represents another major step in Ethiopian Airlines' strategy to modernise its freighter fleet while expanding its cargo network beyond Africa.
The airline currently operates 12 Boeing 777 freighters, two 767 freighters and four 737-8F aircraft. Its cargo network connects more than 70 destinations across Africa, Asia, Europe, the Middle East and North America.
The planned acquisition of the 777-8F will give Ethiopian Airlines access to Boeing's latest freighter platform as it seeks to meet increasing demand for air cargo capacity and maintain connections between African markets and major international trade centres.
The aircraft's combination of payload capacity and range is expected to give the airline additional flexibility in deploying its freighters across long-haul routes, while the new-generation design is intended to improve operating efficiency and environmental performance.
With its expanding cargo operation, Ethiopian Airlines has positioned Addis Ababa as an important air-freight gateway linking African markets with destinations in Asia, Europe, the Middle East and North America. The new order is expected to further strengthen that role as the airline continues its fleet renewal and international expansion.