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Addis Ababa, Jan. 20, 2026 — Boeing and Ethiopian Airlines have announced a firm order for nine 787 Dreamliner aircraft, reinforcing the carrier’s long-haul expansion strategy as global travel demand continues to rise.
The new order centers on the 787-9 variant, which Ethiopian Airlines will deploy to grow its international network that currently spans 145 destinations worldwide. The purchase follows the airline’s previously announced commitment for 11 additional 737 MAX jets, finalized at the Dubai Airshow. Together, the two transactions—completed in December 2025—add 20 fuel-efficient Boeing aircraft to Ethiopian’s order book.
“We are pleased to confirm the order for nine Boeing 787 Dreamliner aircraft to further expand our existing fleet,” said Mesfin Tasew, Group CEO of Ethiopian Airlines. “This order underscores our continued commitment to modern, fuel-efficient aircraft that enhance customer service and support our long-term vision for sustainable aviation.”
Ethiopian Airlines operates Africa’s largest 787 Dreamliner fleet, flying both 787-8 and 787-9 aircraft on intercontinental routes from Addis Ababa to Europe, Asia and North America, as well as high-demand intra-African destinations.
“The 787 Dreamliner family has been a game-changer for airlines worldwide,” said Anbessie Yitbarek, Boeing Vice President of Commercial Sales and Marketing for Africa. “We’re proud to support Ethiopian Airlines as it connects Africa more deeply with the global community using advanced, efficient and passenger-friendly aircraft.”
The 787 Dreamliner delivers up to 25% lower fuel use and emissions compared with the aircraft it replaces, while enabling long, point-to-point routes and significant belly-cargo capacity—an advantage for fast-growing trade corridors across and beyond Africa.
Since entering service in 2011, the 787 family has enabled airlines to open more than 520 new nonstop routes and has carried over one billion passengers globally.
Ethiopian Airlines remains the largest Boeing operator in Africa and holds the continent’s biggest backlog for Boeing aircraft, including the 737 MAX, 777X and 787 Dreamliner families—cementing its position as a central player in Africa’s aviation growth story.
