Ethiopian Airlines, Africa’s largest carrier, has ordered nine Boeing 787 Dreamliner aircraft as demand for long-haul travel continues to grow. The airline will deploy the 787-9 jets to expand its route network, which currently serves 145 international destinations.
The latest 787 order follows Ethiopian Airlines’ commitment for 11 Boeing 737 MAX aircraft announced at the Dubai Airshow. Both orders were finalised in December 2025, increasing the airline’s order book by a total of 20 fuel-efficient Boeing aircraft.
Ethiopian Airlines operates Africa’s largest 787 Dreamliner fleet, flying its 787-8 and 787-9 aircraft on intercontinental routes from Addis Ababa to high-demand destinations across Europe, Asia and North America, as well as key intra-African routes spanning the world’s second-largest continent.
“We are pleased to confirm the order for nine Boeing 787 Dreamliner aircraft to further expand our existing fleet. This order underscores our continued commitment to enhancing our fleet with modern, fuel-efficient aircraft, thereby further strengthening our customer service,” said Mesfin Tasew, Ethiopian Airlines Group CEO. “We will continue to acquire more aircraft and adopt the latest technologies as part of our strategic vision to advance sustainable aviation.”
Ethiopian Airlines operates the largest Boeing airplane fleet in Africa and has the continent’s largest backlog of 737 MAXs, 777X and 787 Dreamliner airplanes.
