Boeing and Ethiopian Airlines have announced that the carrier has agreed to order 11 787 Dreamliner and 20 737 MAX airplanes with an opportunity for 15 and 21 additional jets, respectively.

The agreement represents the largest-ever purchase of Boeing airplanes in African history and was signed at the Dubai Airshow.

Mesfin Tasew, Ethiopian Airlines Group chief executive, said: “We are pleased to announce that Ethiopian Airlines has reached a deal with Boeing to place a firm order for 31 ultra-modern airplanes, with opportunity for 36 additional jets.

“This order will enable us to modernise and increase our fleet in support of Ethiopian Airlines’ growth plan and our Vision 2035 Strategy.

“Through this deal, we have solidified our decades-old exemplary business partnership with Boeing.

“The 787 Dreamliner and 737 MAX demonstrate Ethiopian Airlines’ environmentally conscious decisions and its commitment to serve passengers with the latest technologically advanced airplanes.”

Ethiopian Airlines is ordering the 787-9 variant, part of a Dreamliner family that reduces fuel use and emissions by 25 per cent compared to the airplanes it replaces.

The carrier is also adding the 737-8 model, which reduces fuel use and emissions by 20 per cent and creates a 50 per cent smaller noise footprint compared to the airplanes it replaces.

Both families bring better environmental performance and passenger comfort to their respective markets.

The new commitment positions Ethiopian Airlines to further strengthen and diversify its fleet, which currently includes more than 80 Boeing jets.

The airline operates Africa’s largest Dreamliner fleet with a mix of 787-8s and 787-9s. The new 737 MAX order, which will grow the airline’s backlog for the fuel-efficient jet to 50, will be posted on Boeing’s Orders & Deliveries website when finalised.

The two organisations also agreed to work together to provide cabin modification services for the carrier’s existing 787 Dreamliners.

The comprehensive retrofits will enhance the passenger experience with advanced in-flight entertainment and new seats in all cabins, including lie-flat business-class seats from Boeing joint venture Adient Aerospace.

Brad McMullen, Boeing senior vice president of commercial sales and marketing, said: “Ethiopian Airlines continues its leadership as one of Africa’s preeminent airlines with this landmark commitment to expand their 787 and 737 MAX fleets.

“Ethiopian was the first African airline to take delivery of the 787, and the Dreamliner family continues to play an integral role in its long-haul fleet.

“With their decades of experience operating our single-aisle and widebody jets, we appreciate Ethiopian Airlines’ confidence in our products and the strength of our relationship after more than 75 years of collaboration.”

The 787-9 can fly 296 passengers 14,010km, in addition to carrying substantial cargo.

Since revenue service began in 2011, the 787 family has launched more than 380 new non-stop routes around the world.

The 737-8 carries up to 210 passengers depending on configuration and offers a range of up to 6,480km.

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