By ITOH ABARA-LASERIAN

Ethiopian Airlines Group has confirmed the purchase of nine Boeing 787-9 aircrafts, with deliveries expected between 2031 and 2033 to enhance connectivity and the airlines route network.

Ethiopian Airlines Group Chief Executive Officer, Mr. Mesfin Tasew, disclosed this in a statement on Wednesday in Lagos.

Tasew said that the addition of the aircrafts aimed at expanding the airline’s route network and enhance its international connectivity, providing more flexible flight options for passengers.

He added that the airline’s latest B787 order followed its commitment for 11 737 MAX jets announced at the Dubai Airshow.

According to him, the 787 and 737 MAX purchase was finalised in December 2025 and boosts Ethiopian Airlines’ order book by 20 fuel-efficient Boeing airplanes.

Tasew said: “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.

“We will continue to acquire more aircrafts and adopt the latest technologies as part of our strategic vision to advance sustainable aviation,” he said.

Tasew said Ethiopian Airlines operated Africa’s largest 787 Dreamliner fleet, flying its 787-8 and 787-9 jets on intercontinental routes from Addis Ababa to high-demand destinations across Europe, Asia and North America.

He added that the fleet also plied key intra-African routes spanning the world’s second-largest continent.

Also, Mr. Anbessie Yitbarek, Boeing Vice President of Commercial Sales and Marketing for Africa, said: “The 787 Dreamliner family has proven to be a game-changer for airlines around the world.

“We are proud to support Ethiopian Airlines in their mission to connect Africa with the global community.

“Together, we look forward to shaping the future of air travel with advanced, efficient and comfortable airplanes to serve their passengers,” he said.

The order with Boeing brings Ethiopian Airlines’ total number of Boeing 787-9 aircraft on order to 20 aircrafts. (NAN)

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