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Addis Ababa, May 23, 2025 — Ethiopian Airlines Group, Africa’s largest airline and aviation group, has officially taken delivery of its twelfth Boeing 777 Freighter aircraft, marking another significant milestone in its cargo and logistics expansion strategy. The aircraft landed at Bole International Airport today, joining the airline’s rapidly growing cargo fleet under its dedicated cargo division, Ethiopian Cargo & Logistics Services.
This delivery comes just four months after the arrival of the 11th Boeing 777 Freighter in January 2025. With this latest addition, Ethiopian Cargo now boasts 12 Boeing 777 freighters in active service—making it one of the largest 777F operators on the African continent.
Unmatched Performance and Capacity
The Boeing 777 Freighter is the world’s longest-range twin-engine freighter, capable of flying 9,200 km (4,970 nautical miles) and carrying a maximum payload of 102 metric tonnes (224,900 lbs). Designed for long-haul routes, the aircraft allows Ethiopian Cargo to serve global destinations non-stop, reducing transit time and increasing efficiency.
With a main-deck cargo door and advanced temperature-control systems, the aircraft is ideally suited for transporting pharmaceuticals, perishable goods, electronics, and high-value shipments—key segments in Ethiopian’s global logistics operations.
A Strategic Fleet Mix
In addition to the 12 Boeing 777Fs, Ethiopian Cargo operates four Boeing 737-800 converted freighters and five Boeing 767-300 freighters. Of the 767s, two are currently in operation while three remain parked. This diverse fleet allows Ethiopian to serve both regional and intercontinental markets, offering flexible options to meet growing demand across Africa, the Middle East, Asia, Europe, and the Americas.
Expanding Global Reach
Ethiopian Cargo currently operates to over 60 international cargo destinations, with additional capacity provided via belly hold on Ethiopian Airlines’ passenger fleet. The airline has invested heavily in infrastructure, including a state-of-the-art cargo terminal in Addis Ababa with a capacity of over 1 million tons per year, fully equipped with cold-chain solutions and e-commerce facilities.
Commitment to Africa’s Logistics Future
CEO Mesfin Tasew has reiterated the airline’s commitment to enhancing Ethiopia’s position as a continental logistics hub. “This new aircraft not only expands our capacity but also reinforces our vision of leading Africa’s cargo network with modern technology, global partnerships, and efficient delivery,” he said.
As global demand for air freight continues to grow—especially in e-commerce, pharmaceuticals, and humanitarian logistics—Ethiopian Airlines’ continued investment in freighters demonstrates strategic foresight in turning Addis Ababa into a central logistics gateway between Africa and the rest of the world.
