Ethiopian Airlines grows cargo ambitions with Boeing 777 and 777-8 freighters

Boeing and Ethiopian Airlines have announced a new cargo fleet expansion agreement, with the African carrier ordering eight 777-8 Freighters and two additional 777 Freighters. The investment will enable Ethiopian Airlines to combine the proven reliability and operational efficiency of the current-generation 777 Freighter with the advanced capabilities of Boeing’s next-generation 777-8 Freighter, further strengthening its growing air cargo network.

The latest order marks Ethiopian Airlines’ second commitment to the 777X family, following its acquisition of eight 777-9 passenger aircraft, which made the airline Africa’s first 777X customer. Once in service, the 777-8 Freighter will become the world's largest and most capable twin-engine freighter, providing enhanced capacity, efficiency, and range to support Ethiopian Airlines’ expanding international freight operations and global connectivity.

Mesfin Tasew, Group CEO of Ethiopian Airlines commented: "This agreement marks another significant milestone in strengthening Ethiopian Airlines' cargo capabilities while supporting the continued expansion of our global network. The addition of the Boeing 777-8F Freighters and 777F Freighters will enhance our ability to serve customers around the world with greater payload capacity, operational flexibility, efficiency, and sustainability. As demand for cargo services continues to grow, these aircraft will play a vital role in facilitating global trade, strengthening supply chain connectivity, and further reinforcing Ethiopia's position as a leading cargo gateway between Africa and international markets. It also marks our long-term partnership with Boeing."

Brad McMullen, Boeing senior vice president of Commercial Sales and Marketing stated: "Ethiopian Airlines' order for the industry-leading 777 Freighter and new 777-8 Freighter highlights both the strength of our partnership and growing demand for air cargo worldwide. We appreciate Ethiopian Airlines' continued confidence in Boeing and the 777 and 777X family of airplanes as it expands its cargo capabilities and global network. The airline continues to make history as the first in Africa to order the new 777-8 Freighter."  

Designed to set a new benchmark in air cargo efficiency, the Boeing 777-8 Freighter will offer a maximum structural payload of 118 tonnes, combining industry-leading payload and range capabilities. The aircraft will enable operators to access new markets while reducing fuel consumption and delivering the lowest operating cost per tonne of any freighter currently available.

The proven Boeing 777 Freighter has long been recognized for its efficiency, reliability, and productivity, with Ethiopian Airlines operating one of the world's most intensively utilized 777F fleets. The new 777-8F will seamlessly complement the airline's existing cargo operations, retaining key design advantages that have made the 777F a preferred choice among cargo carriers. These include common cross-sections, standardized main-deck layouts, and the ability to accommodate large and oversized freight, ensuring high utilization rates and operational flexibility.

Ethiopian Airlines currently serves more than 70 cargo destinations across Africa, Asia, Europe, the Middle East, and North America. Its dedicated freighter fleet consists of:

• 12 Boeing 777 Freighters
• Two Boeing 767 Freighters
• Four Boeing 737-800SF converted freighters

The latest order will further strengthen the airline's position as one of Africa's leading cargo operators, providing additional capacity and flexibility to support growing global demand for air freight services while expanding the reach of its international logistics network.