Ethiopian Airlines Expands Fleet with Order for 120 Aircraft

Ethiopian Airlines Group has reaffirmed its position as Africa’s leading aviation powerhouse by placing a substantial new order for approximately 120 aircraft, a move that underscores both its aggressive growth strategy and confidence in the continent’s air travel future. This bold step, announced by CEO Mesfin Tasew in a recent interview, is set to drive the airline’s ambitions to new heights, supporting increased passenger traffic and the ongoing modernization of its operations.

The latest acquisition marks one of the largest orders in African aviation history, reflecting Ethiopian Airlines’ commitment to expanding its network, enhancing capacity, and maintaining its competitive advantage. The announcement comes as the carrier experiences a notable surge in customer numbers and seeks to future-proof its fleet in a rapidly evolving global aviation landscape.

“To manage the increased number of customers and to advance our operational capabilities, we have already ordered around 120 new airplanes,” stated Tasew. This order is a testament to the airline’s forward-looking approach, with deliveries scheduled in phases: smaller aircraft are expected to arrive from 2026, while larger wide-body jets are set for delivery over a three-year period starting in 2028.

This strategic investment is designed to provide Ethiopian Airlines with the flexibility to serve both short-haul and long-haul routes, supporting their vision to connect Africa more seamlessly with the rest of the world. The mix of aircraft types will allow the airline to tailor capacity to specific market demands, optimize operational efficiency, and further enhance the passenger experience across its network.

In addition to this major order, Ethiopian Airlines is in advanced negotiations with both Boeing and Airbus, as well as other leading manufacturers, for an additional fleet expansion targeting deliveries in 2031. A decision on this next phase is expected in early 2026, indicating a continuous and dynamic approach to fleet planning and renewal.

Currently, Ethiopian Airlines operates a robust fleet of over 160 modern aircraft, including some of the industry’s most advanced models: the Airbus A350, Boeing 787 Dreamliner, Boeing 737 MAX, Boeing 777, and Bombardier Q400. This diverse mix enables the carrier to maintain high standards of reliability, safety, and comfort, while supporting an extensive and growing route network that spans Africa, Asia, Europe, the Americas, and the Middle East.

For Africa’s travel industry professionals, Ethiopian Airlines’ latest fleet expansion signals a new chapter in the continent’s aviation development. The carrier’s capacity growth will have far-reaching impacts on route development, partnership opportunities, and market access. As more modern aircraft join the fleet, travel agents and tour operators in sub-Saharan Africa can anticipate improved connectivity, increased flight frequencies, and the opening of new city pairs both within Africa and internationally.

The order also demonstrates Ethiopian Airlines’ confidence in the long-term prospects of African air travel. Despite global challenges, the carrier continues to invest in innovation and infrastructure, positioning itself to capture post-pandemic recovery and long-term growth. This forward momentum is likely to inspire other African airlines to pursue similar modernization strategies, driving up standards and competitiveness across the region.

With phased deliveries of new aircraft and ongoing negotiations for future fleet expansion, Ethiopian Airlines is well-positioned to shape the future of African aviation. The ripple effects will be felt across the continent’s tourism, trade, and investment sectors, offering new opportunities for collaboration and growth throughout the travel ecosystem.