Ethiopian Airlines has ordered new 11 Boeing 737 MAX and 6 Airbus A350-900s Aeroplanes to cement its leadership in the African air industry. The deals were made at the Dubai Airshow 2025.
Africa’s largest airline Ethiopian Airlines already has a backlog of orders with both aeroplane manufacturers and the new orders increases pressure for delivery.
Ethiopian Airlines operates the largest Boeing airplane fleet in Africa and has the largest backlog of 737 MAXs, 777X and 787 Dreamliner aeroplanes on the continent.
The 737 MAX-8 can carry 162 to 210 passengers, with the MAX 10, which is the largest aeroplane in the MAX family carrying up to 230 passengers.
We are thrilled to be announcing our agreement with Boeing for additional 11 B737-8 airplanes today during Dubai Airshow. The order will support our growth plans that we have set as part of our vision and strategy. We are happy that our partnership with Boeing continues to grow over the years and we look forward to flying Boeing airplanes for years to come and that we will continue to serve our customers by bringing them high performance airplanes with passenger comfort.
~ Ethiopian Airlines Group CEO Mr. Mesfin Tasew
On his part, Boeing senior vice president of Commercial Sales and Marketing Brad McMullen said the company was committed to continue offering efficient and versatile aeroplanes which play a pivotal role in Ethiopian Airlines’ growth in connecting the African continent and the world.
The order for the for 6 additional Airbus A350-900 aircraft also reaffirmed Ethiopian Airline’s leadership as the largest A350 customer in Africa.
The Airbus A350 is one of the largest aeroplanes in the world. The A350-900 carries 332-352 passengers.
Benoît de Saint-Exupéry, Airbus EVP Sales of the Commercial Aircraft business said that the Airbus A350-900 brings 25% lower fuel burn and CO₂ emissions compared to previous-generation aircraft and is recognized for its quiet cabin, advanced aerodynamics, and state-of-the-art passenger comfort features.
He reaffirmed the company’s commitment in helping Ethiopian Airlines maintain its aviation excellence in Africa.
Ethiopian Airlines has consistently won various top awards including Skytrax Best Airline in Africa Award for eight consecutive years.
