‍DUBAI — Boeing and Ethiopian Airlines (ET) announced today that the airline has committed to purchase 11 additional 737 MAX jets. 

The deal for 11 737-8 aircraft was signed at the Dubai Airshow and will enable Ethiopian Airlines to grow its regional and international networks and expand its Addis Ababa hub.

"We are thrilled to be announcing our agreement with Boeing for an additional 11 737-8 airplanes today during the Dubai Airshow," said Ethiopian Airlines Group CEO Mesfin Tasew. "The order will support our growth plans that we have set as part of our vision and strategy. We are happy that our partnership with Boeing continues to grow over the years, and we look forward to flying Boeing airplanes for years to come, and that we will continue to serve our customers by bringing them high-performance airplanes with passenger comfort."

Where Are ET’s New 737 MAX Flying?

The carrier leverages 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.

"Ethiopian Airlines' commitment to expand its 737 MAX fleet underscores its leadership in Africa. Our new agreement also strengthens our nearly 80-year partnership with the airline and region," said Brad McMullen, Boeing senior vice president of Commercial Sales and Marketing. "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."

Boeing notes that ET operates the largest fleet of Boeing airplanes in Africa and has the largest backlog of 737 MAX, 777X, and 787 Dreamliner airplanes on the continent.  

The Ethiopian Fleet

Long Range Passenger Services

• 4 Airbus A350-1000
• 21 Airbus A350-900XWB
• 19 Boeing 787-8
• 10 Boeing 787-9
• 5 Boeing 777-300 ER
• 6 Boeing 777-200LR

Medium Range Passenger Services 18 Boeing 737-800

• 27 Boeing 737 MAX
• 6 Boeing 737-700NG
• 1 Boeing 737-800BBJ

Regional and Domestic Passenger Services

• 30 Bombardier Q400 (Dash 8-400)

Long-range Cargo Services

• 12 Boeing 777-200LRF (Cargo)
• 4 Boeing 767-300F

Medium-range Cargo Services

• 4 Boeing 737-800F (Cargo)

Total operating fleet: 167 Aircraft

Fleet on Order

Long Range Passenger Services

• 11 Airbus A350- 900
• 11 Boeing 787-9
• 8 B777-9X- 

Medium Range Passenger Services

• 34 Boeing 737 MAX 8

Total fleet on order: 64 Aircraft

Stay tuned to Airways for exclusive coverage from our team on the grounds at the Dubai Airshow 2025 #DAS2025.