Ethiopian Airlines has ordered eight Boeing 777-8 Freighters and two 777 Freighters as the African carrier expands its cargo fleet and global freight network, Boeing and the airline said on October 1.
The order combines the current-generation 777 Freighter with Boeing’s next-generation 777X family, giving Ethiopian greater capacity and flexibility as demand for air cargo grows.
The deal is Ethiopian Airlines’ second order for Boeing’s 777X family, following its purchase of eight 777-9 passenger aircraft, which made it the first African airline to order the new aircraft.
The 777-8 Freighter is designed to be the largest and most capable twin-engine freighter, according to Boeing, and will support Ethiopian’s expanding international cargo operations.
Ethiopian currently serves more than 70 cargo destinations across Africa, Asia, Europe, the Middle East and North America with a freighter fleet comprising 12 777 Freighters, two 767 Freighters and four 737-800 converted freighters.
The new aircraft will allow the airline to expand its cargo network and respond to growing demand for air freight, the companies said.
