Ethiopian Airlines has signed an agreement to acquire 10 Boeing cargo aircraft as part of efforts to expand its freight operations and strengthen its position in the global air cargo market.
The deal includes eight Boeing 777-8 Freighters and two Boeing 777 Freighters, according to the airline’s Chief Executive Officer, Mesfin Tasew.
Mesfin said the acquisition would further strengthen the airline’s cargo capabilities and support the continued expansion of its global network.
“This agreement marks another significant milestone in strengthening Ethiopian Airlines’ cargo capabilities while supporting the continued expansion of our global network,” he stated.
The 10 aircraft have a catalogue value of about five billion dollars, although the actual purchase price was not disclosed.
The Chief Executive Officer also revealed that the airline had secured an option to acquire an additional eight aircraft.
Mesfin noted that the new freighters would enhance the airline’s cargo capacity and reinforce Ethiopia’s role as a major cargo gateway linking Africa with international markets.
“The new aircraft will contribute to further reinforcing Ethiopia’s position as a leading cargo gateway between Africa and international markets,” he stressed.
Ethiopian Airlines has continued to expand its cargo business in recent years as demand for air freight services grows.
The airline currently operates 12 Boeing 777 Freighters and three Boeing 767 Freighters, among other cargo aircraft.
Its total fleet comprises more than 140 aircraft serving passenger and cargo routes across Africa and other regions of the world.
