Sonali Tiwary
Africa’s largest airline may be about to make one of its biggest cargo bets yet. Ethiopian Airlines is reportedly nearing a deal with Boeing for as many as 10 long-haul freighter aircraft, according to industry sources. Neither the airline nor Boeing has publicly confirmed the transaction.
The reported deal could include current-generation 777F aircraft and several 777-8F freighters, although the final number and model mix could change. The 777-8F is still in development, with first deliveries expected around 2028.
Why does Ethiopian need more freighters? It already has a substantial cargo operation. The airline’s fleet currently includes 10 Boeing 777-200LRF aircraft, three Boeing 767-300Fs, and four Boeing 737-800Fs, with five more 777-200LRFs listed as on order. In its 2025/26 financial year, the airline moved approximately 897,000 tonnes of cargo.
The bigger strategic picture involves a project that is already underway. In January 2026, Ethiopian broke ground on the construction of Bishoftu International Airport, intended to provide additional capacity alongside the existing Addis Ababa Bole International Airport. The airport project is being developed to support the airline’s expansion.
The 777-8F is the next-generation version of Boeing’s most successful freighter line. It offers a payload capacity comparable to the older four-engine 747 freighter but with two engines, which reduces fuel consumption and operating costs.
The African continent represents a key market for air freight. Ethiopian, based in Addis Ababa, operates routes connecting Asian manufacturing centers with African markets.
For now, the deal remains unconfirmed. Industry source reporting puts Ethiopian close to finalizing it, but until Boeing and Ethiopian Airlines issue official statements, the number of aircraft, exact model mix, and terms remain subject to change.
