Business 20 April 2026 Daily Monitor (Uganda)
Ethiopian Airlines Orders Six More Boeing 787-9 Dreamliners for Global Expansion
Africa's largest airline, Ethiopian Airlines, has confirmed the purchase of six additional Boeing 787-9 Dreamliner jets to boost its long-haul network. The carrier is also advancing a massive new airport project aimed at becoming Africa's premier aviation hub. Source: https://www.monitor.co.ug/uganda/news/ethiopian-airlines-buying-six-more-boeing-787-9-airplanes-5430710
Ethiopian Airlines, Africa’s leading carrier, announced on Monday the acquisition of six more Boeing 787-9 Dreamliner aircraft. This move converts existing options into firm orders, adding to a prior commitment of 20 such jets, with deliveries starting in 2028.
Group CEO Mesfin Tasew shared these details with Reuters following a signing event at Boeing’s headquarters near Washington. The expansion targets mature routes in Africa and new long-haul destinations like Australia, previously limited by aircraft shortages, as well as services to the U.S., Europe, and Asia.
The ceremony drew attendees from the Trump administration, emphasizing U.S. priorities in Boeing exports.
Tasew also highlighted talks with U.S. officials on a $12.5 billion airport project in Bishoftu, 45 km southeast of Addis Ababa. Set for completion in 2030, this four-runway facility will handle 60 million passengers annually—over four times the capacity of the current main airport, which nears its limits soon.
“We want this airport to be the Dubai of Africa, or the Istanbul of Africa,” Tasew stated, noting ultramodern features. The African Development Bank has pledged $500 million and is rallying $8.7 billion in funding, with keen interest from U.S. institutions.
Construction began in January, with Ethiopian Airlines securing the design contract.