Paris Air Show: Ethiopian Airlines signs for 2 De Havilland Twin Otters
June 17, 2025
It’s time for the little planes to shine, as Ethiopian Airlines has confirmed an order for 2 of De Havilland’s iconic Twin Otter 300-G aircraft at the Paris Air Show.
These aren’t replacements for older Otters; in fact these will be the first ever to feature in the Ethiopian Airlines fleet.
“We’re honuored to welcome Ethiopian Airlines to the Twin Otter 300-G family,” said Ryan DeBrusk, Vice President, Sales and Marketing at De Havilland Canada. “Their selection of the 300-G highlights the aircraft’s unique ability to serve vital regional routes, support tourism, and contribute to economic development across East Africa.”
The order is firm, and is for two amphibious-configured aircraft. No delivery date has been announced.
Why does Ethiopian Airlines want Twin Otters?
According to the airline, these two new additions will be used to enhance and add service to the most remote and underserved areas. In particular focus are the communities around the great lakes of Ethiopia.
As well as moving passengers, the Twin Otters are seen as being vital for missions involving cargo, medical evacuation and more.
“The Twin Otter 300-G is the right aircraft for our domestic expansion plans,” said Mesfin Tasew, Group CEO of Ethiopian Airlines. “Its proven performance in demanding conditions, along with the modern enhancements of this latest variant, support our broader goals of boosting regional access and contributing to socio-economic development across Ethiopia and the continent.”
With this order, Ethiopian Airlines is showcasing its commitment to connecting Africa, not just with other continents, but with itself too.
An all-new Twin Otter
The Twin Otter 300-G is the latest iteration of the highly successful Twin Otter series. More than 600 Twin Otters have been delivered to date.
The 300-G builds on this legacy with an all-new Garmin G1000 NXI glass cockpit, improved fuel efficiency, a higher MTOW and lower maintenance.
