Ethiopian Airlines Orders Nine Additional Boeing 787 Dreamliners

In a move that underscores both ambition and strategic foresight, Ethiopian Airlines, Africa’s largest and most globally connected carrier, has confirmed a firm order for nine Boeing 787-9 Dreamliner aircraft, marking a significant expansion of its widebody fleet as international travel demand continues to grow. The announcement, made on January 20, 2026, reflects the airline’s commitment to fleet modernisation, sustainable operations, and enhanced global connectivity.

The new Dreamliners are the latest addition to Ethiopian’s comprehensive fleet growth strategy, which also includes a recent finalized order for 11 Boeing 737 MAX narrowbody jets announced at the Dubai Airshow and concluded in December 2025. Together, these aircraft bring 20 fuel-efficient Boeing aircraft into the airline’s future service roster.

Ethiopian Airlines’ latest purchase is a direct response to strong growth in long-haul travel and an increasingly competitive global market. With a current network reaching 145 international destinations, the airline has steadily built a reputation as a key connector between Africa, Europe, Asia, and North America, and the additional 787-9s will further enhance this position.

Group CEO Mesfin Tasew highlighted the importance of the deal in strengthening customer service and operational sustainability. “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,” he said. “We will continue to acquire more aircraft and adopt the latest technologies as part of our strategic vision to advance sustainable aviation.”

Since its introduction, the Boeing 787 family has been a transformative aircraft for airlines worldwide, opening new non-stop routes and redefining long-haul economics. For Ethiopian Airlines, the 787 has been central to its global expansion for more than a decade, with the carrier already operating Africa’s largest Dreamliner fleet.

The 787-9 variant offers a unique blend of fuel efficiency, range, and passenger comfort. With advanced aerodynamics, lightweight composite materials, and next-generation engines, the Dreamliner reduces fuel use and carbon emissions by approximately 25% compared to the aircraft it replaces, a compelling advantage in an era marked by heightened environmental standards and fuel price volatility.

Passengers benefit from the Boeing 787’s signature features: larger windows, improved cabin pressurisation and humidity for reduced jet lag, and advanced noise-reducing technologies that make long flights more comfortable. These interior enhancements have become a hallmark of the Dreamliner experience and align with Ethiopian Airlines’ customer-centric service philosophy.

The nine new Dreamliners are expected to be delivered between 2031 and 2033, giving Ethiopian several years to plan route deployments and infrastructure adjustments in anticipation of the expanded widebody capacity.

This development complements other strategic initiatives. Ethiopian’s broader fleet plan includes substantial investment in Boeing’s 777X family, as well as a continued pipeline of 737 MAX deliveries that will refresh its narrowbody operations and support regional growth. These moves are aligned with the airline’s long-term Vision 2035 strategy, aimed at positioning the carrier among the world’s most competitive aviation groups.

Furthermore, the airline is pursuing significant infrastructure projects such as the Bishoftu International Mega Airport City, which will bolster operational capacity and support future growth across passenger, cargo, and logistics services.

Ethiopian Airlines has long been a bellwether for growth in African aviation, consistently setting benchmarks for network scale, fleet modernisation and operational excellence. The addition of nine new 787-9s not only supports Ethiopian’s ambitions but also signals confidence in the long-term prospects of international air travel from Africa.

This order also reflects a broader industry trend where carriers, confronted with pressure to reduce emissions and enhance efficiency while meeting rising demand, continue to invest in fuel-efficient widebody aircraft. While other global airlines have made similar decisions to expand 787 fleets, Ethiopian’s commitment uniquely underscores Africa’s growing role in the global aviation market.

As Ethiopian Airlines prepares for this next phase of its fleet expansion, expectations are high for new route opportunities, improved service offerings, and stronger international competitiveness. The Dreamliners will be a key enabler in this journey, connecting continents, expanding economic ties and offering passengers a modern, efficient, and comfortable flying experience.