Ethiopian Airlines Nears Decision on Major Order for Boeing, Airbus, or Embraer Jets

Ethiopian Airlines Group is close to finalizing a significant aircraft order that could include up to 50 single-aisle jets and 16 freighters, a move that pits top manufacturers Boeing, Airbus, and Embraer against each other for a key contract with one of Africa's largest carriers.

Final Evaluations Underway

The state-owned airline is evaluating a purchase of 25 single-aisle planes with options for an additional 10 aircraft, according to Chief Commercial Officer Lemma Yadecha in a recent interview. The models under final consideration include the smallest version of the Boeing Co. 737 MAX, the Airbus SE A220, and regional jets from Embraer.

Separately, the airline is approaching a decision on an order for up to 16 freighters, a deal that would include eight purchasing rights. Yadecha confirmed the carrier is conducting a "final evaluation" of the technical and financial aspects of the proposals and expects to make a decision "in weeks to come."

Strategic Importance and Market Impact

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The timing of the decision could allow for an announcement at the Farnborough Air Show, which begins next week. Yadecha noted the urgency in placing orders is driven by increasingly limited delivery slots from manufacturers as the aviation industry continues its post-pandemic recovery.

The order is a core part of Ethiopian's strategy to modernize its fleet and support its growth across Africa. The carrier aims to maintain an average fleet age of no more than eight years.

A contract with Airbus or Embraer for the single-aisle jets would be a notable development, expanding their relationship with a carrier whose fleet is predominantly composed of Boeing aircraft. Ethiopian Airlines currently operates approximately 170 jets, including more than 100 Boeing 737s, 777s, and 787s, alongside 26 Airbus A350s. The airline already has more than 60 additional jets on order from Boeing.