Ethiopian Airlines has signed a memorandum of Understanding with Boeing, confirming its intent to purchase five of the industry’s latest, fuel-efficient freighters, the Boeing 777-8. The order will enable the African airline to deal with increasing global cargo demand from its Addis Ababa hub and to facilitate future, long-term sustainable growth.
The Boeing 777-8 was only launched in January of this year and has already received 34 firm orders. While the plane may carry virtually the same payload as the 777X family of jets, it operates at 30% better fuel efficiency, emissions and operating costs. At present, Ethiopian Airlines operates nine 777 Freighters, connecting Africa with more than 40 cargo centres throughout Asia, Europe, the Middle East and Americas. Additionally, the company’s fleet includes three 737-800 Boeing Converted Freighters and a combined commercial fleet of more than 80 Boeing jets including 737s, 767s, 787s and 777s.
