Ethiopian Airlines Orders Eight Boeing 777-8 Freighters

African airlines expanded their air cargo capacity far faster than demand growth in August, which pulled down aircraft utilisation despite improvements in the global airfreight market. Facing these broader regional market conditions, Ethiopian Airlines is taking a distinct strategic view by committing to major fleet expansion. The carrier has officially ordered eight new Boeing 777-8 freighters as part of its long-term Vision 2040 strategy. This major agreement makes Ethiopian Airlines the very first African carrier to purchase this advanced freighter model. According to Boeing's Brad McMullen, deliveries of the newly ordered cargo aircraft are scheduled to take place between 2033 and 2035. The Boeing 777-8 freighter model is notably built around an all-new carbon-fibre wing design, representing a significant technological step for the airline's long-distance cargo operations.