Ethiopian Airlines orders 10 Boeing freighters, including Africa’s first 777-8 Freighters

Ethiopian Airlines has expanded its cargo fleet with a firm order for eight Boeing 777-8 Freighters and two 777 Freighters. 

The order, confirmed on 30 September, is the African carrier’s second for the 777X airplane family. It builds on its earlier purchase of eight 777-9 passenger jets that established the carrier as Africa’s first 777X customer.

The latest deal doubles Ethiopian Airlines’ 777X family order book to 16 aircraft across passenger and freighter variants. The agreement also includes purchase rights for up to eight additional 777-8 Freighters, potentially expanding the airline’s future freighter fleet even further.

The order supports Ethiopian Airlines’ ambitions to expand its position as one of Africa’s leading air cargo operators and logistics gateways

“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”, said Mesfin Tasew, Group CEO of Ethiopian Airlines. 

“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.”

According to reports, the aircraft have a combined catalogue price of about $5 billion, although the deal’s actual value remains confidential. 

What is the Boeing 777-8 Freighter and why does Ethiopian Airlines want it?

Boeing calls the 777-8F “the world’s most capable and efficient freighter for the future”.

With a maximum structural payload of 118 tonnes, it has the highest payload and range capability open to new markets. It also has a 30% reduction in fuel and CO2 compared to the airplanes it will replace. 

Brad McMullen, Boeing senior vice president of Commercial Sales and Marketing said, “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.”  

How large is Ethiopian Airlines’ cargo fleet?

Ethiopian Airlines currently connects more than 70 cargo markets across Africa, Asia, Europe, the Middle East and North America.

Its fleet includes 12 Boeing 777 Freighters, two Boeing 767 Freighters and four Boeing 737-800SF aircraft.

According to reports, the eight 777-8Fs are scheduled for delivery between 2033 and 2035, while the two 777Fs arrive in 2027 and 2028.

Ethiopian has been expanding its role as a logistics gateway. It generated $9.1 billion in revenue in the financial year ended July 7, 2026, a 20% increase from the previous year. 

Meanwhile cargo volumes increased 16% to 897,000 metric tonnes.