Addis Ababa, Ethiopia — Ethiopian Airlines, the flag carrier of Ethiopia and a key player in the African aviation landscape, has confirmed the purchase of six more Boeing 787-9 Dreamliner jets. This move, which follows a previous acquisition of 20 Dreamliners, brings the airline’s total order for the aircraft to 26, signaling its commitment to enhancing its long-haul capabilities and expanding its global reach.
The delivery of these new Dreamliners is set to commence in 2028, coinciding with the airline’s strategic growth plans. Group CEO Mesfin Tasew has emphasized the importance of these aircraft for the airline’s expansion into key markets such as the United States, Europe, and Asia, where Ethiopian Airlines aims to establish a stronger presence.
In addition to the fleet expansion, Ethiopian Airlines is investing heavily in infrastructure with the development of the Bishoftu International Airport, a $12. 5 billion project located 45 kilometers southeast of Addis Ababa. Scheduled for completion in 2030, this new airport is poised to become Africa’s largest, with a capacity of 60 million passengers and state-of-the-art facilities.
Tasew has ambitious plans for the airport, likening it to the “Dubai of Africa “or the “Istanbul of Africa.”.
The Bishoftu International Airport project is backed by significant financial support, with the African Development Bank contributing $500 million and leading efforts to secure an additional $8. 7 billion. Construction on the airport began earlier this year, as Ethiopian Airlines seeks to accommodate the rising passenger demand and position itself as a global aviation hub.
Ethiopian Airlines’strategic expansion is not only about fleet modernization but also about supporting the growth of long-haul routes, as highlighted by Boeing Newsroom.
The airline’s aggressive expansion strategy is a testament to its vision of becoming a leader in Africa’s aviation sector and contributing to the continent’s economic development.
As Ethiopian Airlines prepares for the future with its expanded fleet and ambitious airport project, the next few years will be crucial in determining its role as a pivotal player in the African aviation industry and its impact on the continent’s economic landscape.
*Additional reporting by ImNews*
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By This original article was produced by the ImNews editorial team
Source: Africa.businessinsider
Source: Chinedu Okafor
