Ethiopian Airlines has committed to purchase 11 additional 737 MAX 8 jets, further extending its backlog of Boeing aircraft, which is already the largest in Africa.
The agreement for the additional 737 MAX jets, signed at the Dubai Airshow, will enable Ethiopian Airlines to grow its regional and international networks and expand its Addis Ababa hub.
The airline said it will leverage the reliability, efficiency, and range of its 737 MAX fleet on routes across Africa, the Middle East, India, and Southern Europe, where quick turnarounds and frequency are essential to meet passenger demand.
Brad McMullen, senior vice president of commercial sales and marketing at Boeing, said the agreement underscores Ethiopian Airlines' leadership in Africa and further strengthens the two companies’ 80-year partnership.
"We are proud that our efficient and versatile airplanes will continue to play a pivotal role in Ethiopian Airlines' growth as they further connect the African continent and the world," he said.
Ethiopian Airlines operates the largest fleet of Boeing aircraft in Africa, and has the largest backlog of 737 MAX, 777X, and 787 Dreamliner aircraft on the continent.
In addition to the 11 additional jets ordered from Boeing, Ethiopian Airlines has also signed a new agreement to lease two 737 MAX 8 aircraft from CDB Aviation, which are scheduled for delivery in the first half of 2026.
Ethiopian Airlines is the largest airline in Africa, with a total operating fleet of 167 aircraft, including 27 737 MAX aircraft.