Ethiopian Airlines with large Boeing order

Ethiopian Airlines has announced the placing of one of the biggest orders to Boeing so far, consisting of 20 737 MAX 8s aircrafts.

The current order is estimated to worth over $2.1 billion at list prices. This deal also includes purchasse rights for 15 more 737 MAX 8s in the future.

This order is the largest one placed by an African carrier to Boeing, in terms of airplane numbers.

“Today’s order underlines our commitment to our 15-year strategic plan, ‘Vision 2025’, in which Ethiopian will strive to become the leading airline group in Africa carrying 18 million passengers per annum,”

“The 737 MAX will form a key component of that strategic vision, enhancing our single-aisle fleet and keeping us at the forefront of African aviation.” Tewolde Gebremariam, chief executive, Ethiopian Airlines.

Boeing 737 MAX is gaining popularity due to its technical setup which is state of the art. Moving forward in terms of technology means taking a leap forward as far as passenger comfort and safety is concerned. It also represents a huge step in terms of efficiency.

The demand for this particular airplane is phenomenal, considering that 2.294 orders have already been placed from 47 different customers. One of the reasons for its rise to fame is the 14% fuel economy that comes with the package.

“This historic order for Boeing and our partner Ethiopian once again positions the carrier at the heart of African aerospace innovation with the acquisition of the 737 MAX,”

“Throughout the years, Ethiopian has consistently led the way in introducing new airplane types to passengers across Africa. Today’s record order signals its commitment to continue that tradition.” - said Van Rex Gallard, vice president of sales for Latin America, Africa and the Caribbean, Boeing Commercial Airplanes

Ethiopian Airlines has a portfolio of more than 80 destinations world-wide and is based at Bole International Airport in Addis Ababa.

The current Boeing order comes in tune with their tradition spanning for more than 50 years back. Further acquisitions are expected from Ethiopian in the context expansion or renewal plans.