Ethiopian Airlines and Boeing announced that, in response to the growing demand for long-haul travel, Africa's biggest airline placed an order for nine 787 Dreamliners.

According to a Boeing press release, Ethiopian Airlines will use the 787-9 aircraft to expand its route network, which presently serves 145 international destinations.

Following its announcement at the Dubai Airshow that it would purchase 11 737 MAX aircraft, the airline has made its most recent acquisition of a 787. The two orders, which were completed in December 2025, add 20 fuel-efficient Boeing aircraft to Ethiopian Airlines' order book.

"We are pleased to confirm the order for nine Boeing 787 Dreamliner aircraft to further expand our existing fleet. This order underscores our continued commitment to enhancing our fleet with modern, fuel-efficient aircraft, thereby further strengthening our customer service," said Mesfin Tasew, Ethiopian Airlines Group CEO.

Ethiopian Airlines operates Africa's largest 787 Dreamliner fleet, flying its 787-8 and 787-9 jets on intercontinental routes from Addis Ababa to high-demand destinations across Europe, Asia, and North America, as well as key intra-African routes spanning the world's second-largest continent.

"The 787 Dreamliner family has proven to be a game-changer for airlines around the world, and we are proud to support Ethiopian Airlines in their mission to connect Africa with the global community," said Anbessie Yitbarek, Boeing vice president of Commercial Sales and Marketing for Africa.

The capacity and efficiency of the 787 Dreamliner, which reduces fuel use and emissions by 25% compared to the airplanes it replaces, enables Ethiopian Airlines to transport passengers point-to-point across Africa while accommodating cargo in the belly of the airplane for high-demand trade lanes.

Source: Boeing Media Room