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FreightWatch.News
Wednesday, September 30, 2026
Ethiopian Airlines has committed to purchasing eight 777-8 freighter aircraft and two current-generation 777 cargo jets from Boeing, narrowing the manufacturer's competitive disadvantage against Airbus in next-generation widebody freighter sales.
The carrier becomes the first African airline to order the 777-8 freighter variant. Ethiopian said the aircraft will support network expansion across its 70-plus connected markets and complement its existing fleet of 18 Boeing cargo and passenger jets.
The 777-8 freighter offers a maximum payload of 118 metric tons and delivers 30% better fuel efficiency than the A350 freighter. Boeing projects commercial release in 2028, though certification delays could extend the timeline into 2029 or beyond.
Boeing now holds 89 firm orders for the 777-8 freighter, compared to Airbus' 115 A350 freighter commitments. No delivery schedule was announced for Ethiopian's aircraft.
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