Ethiopian Airlines has placed an order for eight Boeing 777-8 Freighters and two 777 Freighters as it looks to expand its cargo capacity and international freight network.
The agreement represents the African carrier’s second order for aircraft from Boeing’s 777X family, following its previous purchase of eight 777-9 passenger aircraft.
Ethiopian Airlines will become the first African customer for the 777-8F, which is designed to offer a maximum structural payload of 118 tonnes.
Mesfin Tasew, group chief executive of Ethiopian Airlines, said: “This agreement marks another significant milestone in strengthening Ethiopian Airlines' cargo capabilities while supporting the continued expansion of our global network.
“The addition of the Boeing 777-8F Freighters and 777F Freighters will enhance our ability to serve customers around the world with greater payload capacity, operational flexibility, efficiency, and sustainability.”
Ethiopian Airlines currently serves more than 70 cargo markets across Africa, Asia, Europe, the Middle East and North America. Its freighter fleet comprises 12 777 Freighters, two 767 Freighters and four 737-800SF aircraft.
The airline said the additional aircraft will provide greater flexibility as it responds to growing demand across its cargo network.
The 777-8F is the freighter variant of Boeing’s 777X programme and is intended to complement the existing 777F. Boeing says the aircraft will retain features common with the 777F while offering greater payload and range capability.
Brad McMullen, Boeing senior vice president of commercial sales and marketing, said: “Ethiopian Airlines' order for the industry-leading 777 Freighter and new 777-8 Freighter highlights both the strength of our partnership and growing demand for air cargo worldwide.”
