Ethiopian Airlines Expands Fleet with Nine New Boeing 787 Dreamliners
Ethiopian Airlines confirms order of nine Boeing 787 Dreamliners to boost long-haul travel and modernise fleet.
Ethiopian Airlines, Africa’s biggest carrier, has announced a new deal with Boeing to purchase nine Boeing 787 Dreamliner aircraft. The order comes as the airline continues to modernise its fleet and strengthen its global network.
This latest agreement follows the airline’s December purchase of 11 Boeing 737 MAX aircraft at the Dubai Airshow. Together, the acquisitions bring Ethiopian’s tally to 20 new-generation planes. The carrier says the move is part of its long-term strategy to rely on more fuel-efficient aircraft and cut emissions.
“We are pleased to confirm the order for nine Boeing 787 Dreamliner aircraft to further expand our existing fleet. This order highlights our ongoing commitment to enhancing our fleet with modern, fuel-efficient aircraft. It reinforces our customer service,” said Mesfin Tasew, Ethiopian Airlines Group CEO in a joint statement with Boeing .
Lower fuel use and emissions
The Dreamliner is designed to reduce fuel consumption and carbon emissions by up to 25% compared with older models. For Ethiopian Airlines, this means lower operating costs and improved environmental performance.
The aircraft also allows for combined passenger and cargo transport, which is important for high-demand routes. Ethiopian already operates both the 787-8 and 787-9 variants on intercontinental flights from Addis Ababa to Europe, Asia and North America, as well as selected African routes .
Passenger numbers keep rising
Ethiopian Airlines ferried 17.5 million passengers in 2024, up from 15.9 million the year before. Demand for long-haul travel is rising, and the airline is positioning itself to capture more of that market.
Anbessie Yitbarek, Boeing’s Vice President of Commercial Sales and Marketing for Africa, said: “The 787 Dreamliner family represents a significant change. It marks a major shift for airlines worldwide. We are proud to support Ethiopian Airlines as it expands connectivity between Africa and the rest of the world.”
About Ethiopian Airlines
Founded in 1945, Ethiopian Airlines has grown into Africa’s largest and most connected airline. It currently serves 145 international destinations and is a member of the Star Alliance network.
Primary Artefact (Official Government Source)
The official confirmation came via a Boeing press release on 20 January 2026. It stated: “Africa’s largest carrier ordered nine 787 Dreamliner airplanes. This is happening as demand for long-haul travel continues to rise. Ethiopian Airlines will leverage the 787-9 jets to grow its route network, which currently serves 145 international destinations.”
Sources
- Verified: Ethiopian Airlines confirmed the purchase in Addis Ababa on 20 January 2026.
- Followed by where: The announcement was made jointly with Boeing, highlighting deliveries planned between 2031 and 2033.
- Checked where: The deal was cross-referenced with Boeing’s official investor release and Ethiopian Airlines’ own statement.
- No conflicting statements: Both sources align on the number of aircraft ordered, the purpose of expansion, and the timeline.
Source: Ecofin Agency
