Ethiopian Airlines has ordered nine Boeing 787-9 Dreamliner aircraft as it continues to expand and modernise its long-haul fleet under an ambitious growth strategy aimed at turning the carrier into one of the world’s leading airlines.
The order, confirmed in a joint statement released on January 20, will see the aircraft delivered between 2031 and 2033. The deal forms part of the state-owned carrier’s broader fleet renewal programme, focused on improving fuel efficiency, reducing emissions and supporting network expansion.
“We are pleased to confirm the order for nine Boeing 787 Dreamliner aircraft to further expand our existing fleet,” Ethiopian Airlines Chief Executive Officer Mesfin Tasew said. He said the acquisition reflects the airline’s commitment to operating modern, fuel-efficient aircraft while enhancing customer service.
Boeing said the order reinforces the strong relationship between the U.S. aircraft manufacturer and Africa’s largest airline. Anbessie Yitbarek, Boeing’s vice president of commercial sales and marketing for Africa, said the 787 Dreamliner family had transformed long-haul travel by enabling airlines to operate more efficient routes. He added that Boeing was proud to support Ethiopian Airlines as it strengthens air links between Africa and the rest of the world.
Strengthening Africa’s largest long-haul fleet
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The latest order follows Ethiopian Airlines’ commitment to purchase 11 Boeing 737 MAX aircraft, announced at the Dubai Airshow. The carrier already operates the largest fleet of Boeing 787 Dreamliners in Africa, including both the 787-8 and 787-9 variants.
These aircraft serve long-haul routes from Addis Ababa to destinations in Europe, Asia and North America, as well as high-density routes within Africa. The airline has positioned Addis Ababa as a major hub for intercontinental travel, linking African cities with global markets.
According to Boeing, the 787-9 Dreamliner reduces fuel consumption and carbon emissions by around 25% compared with the aircraft it replaces. Ethiopian Airlines said the jets will support the opening of new routes and increased frequencies on existing services, while offering passengers improved comfort and range.
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In November 2025, the airline also placed a firm order for six Airbus A350-900 aircraft. Like the Dreamliner, the A350-900 offers a reduction of about 25% in fuel burn and CO₂ emissions compared with previous-generation long-haul aircraft, underscoring the carrier’s focus on efficiency and sustainability.
Vision 2040 growth ambitions
The fleet expansion is a core element of Ethiopian Airlines’ long-term “Vision 2040” strategy, which aims to position the carrier among the world’s top 20 airlines over the next 15 years.
Under the plan, Ethiopian Airlines targets annual revenue of $29 billion by 2040, up from $7.6 billion recorded in the 2024/2025 financial year. Passenger numbers are expected to rise to nearly 64 million annually, compared with about 19 million in the most recent fiscal year.
Cargo operations, a key revenue stream for the airline, are also set for major growth. The carrier aims to increase cargo volumes to 1.9 million tonnes per year, from around 754,000 tonnes currently, as it strengthens its role as a logistics hub for Africa.
To support these ambitions, the airline plans to more than double its fleet to 303 aircraft, from 145 today. Its international network is also set to expand significantly, with destinations projected to rise to 243 from 144.
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New airport to underpin expansion
Infrastructure development is another pillar of Ethiopian Airlines’ growth strategy. Earlier this month, construction began on a new international airport at Bishoftu, about 40 kilometres southeast of Addis Ababa.
The project has been described by Ethiopian authorities as the largest airport infrastructure development in Africa. Once completed, the facility is expected to feature four runways and the capacity to accommodate up to 270 aircraft, easing congestion at Addis Ababa Bole International Airport and supporting the airline’s long-term expansion plans.
Ethiopian Airlines has emerged as one of Africa’s most successful carriers, benefiting from consistent profitability, state backing and a strategy focused on fleet modernisation and network growth. The latest Boeing order signals its intention to maintain that momentum as competition intensifies in global aviation.
