Ethiopian Airlines, Africa’s leading aviation group, has announced the purchase of two new twin-aisle aircraft, further cementing its reputation as the continent’s most ambitious and fast-growing carrier. The deal, part of the airline’s sweeping Vision 2035 strategic plan, marks another significant step in fleet modernization and global competitiveness.

Although the type of aircraft acquired has not yet been officially disclosed, industry analysts believe the order complements Ethiopian Airlines’ recent acquisitions of Airbus A350-1000s and Boeing 777-9 jets. Both aircraft types are among the most advanced wide-body planes in the global aviation market, known for their fuel efficiency, reduced emissions, and long-haul capabilities. These latest purchases underscore Ethiopian’s long-term vision of operating one of the youngest, most technologically advanced fleets in the world.

The airline’s move comes on the heels of several landmark announcements over the past 18 months. In March 2024, Ethiopian Airlines became the first African carrier to place a formal order for the Boeing 777-9, the latest generation of Boeing’s twin-aisle jets. That order included eight firm purchases and options for an additional 12. Just months prior, the airline had also received Africa’s first Airbus A350-1000, marking another historic milestone for the carrier and positioning it at the forefront of aviation technology on the continent.

To power this new wave of aircraft, Ethiopian Airlines has also finalized major engine procurement deals. Among them is a multi-billion-dollar agreement with GE Aerospace for the supply of GEnx engines for Boeing 787-9 Dreamliners and GE9X engines for the upcoming 777-9 fleet. In a separate move, the airline signed a significant contract with Rolls-Royce to power its A350 aircraft with next-generation Trent XWB engines, further signaling its commitment to reliability, efficiency, and environmental sustainability.

These acquisitions form the backbone of Ethiopian’s Vision 2035 strategy, a bold roadmap aimed at growing the airline’s fleet to 271 aircraft, increasing annual passenger volumes to 65 million, and boosting cargo capacity to 3 million tons. Already operating one of the most extensive networks in Africa, the airline continues to expand its footprint into Asia, Europe, the Americas, and the Middle East. The addition of new twin-aisle aircraft will allow for higher frequencies on popular intercontinental routes such as Addis Ababa to Washington, Guangzhou, Paris, and London, while also opening new long-haul destinations.

The airline’s steady growth in recent years has been nothing short of remarkable. In 2024, Ethiopian Airlines reported a 30 percent surge in passenger traffic, outpacing regional competitors and expanding its global reputation. On the cargo front, its state-of-the-art e-commerce logistics facility at Bole International Airport has increased freight capacity, attracting major international clients and reinforcing Addis Ababa’s role as a rising logistics hub.

The fleet expansion also has broader implications for Ethiopia’s aviation industry and national economy. As one of the country's top foreign revenue generators, Ethiopian Airlines plays a critical role in employment, infrastructure investment, and global trade facilitation. Its growing fleet supports maintenance and training programs at the Ethiopian Aviation Academy, while also stimulating demand for airport upgrades, ground handling services, and aviation technology suppliers.

CEO Mesfin Tasew has been vocal about the airline’s goals to not only compete globally but to set a standard for excellence and efficiency across Africa’s skies. The acquisition of additional twin-aisle aircraft reaffirms that ambition, offering enhanced comfort for passengers, reduced operational costs, and greater capacity to meet soaring demand across continents.

As the global aviation industry continues to rebound from the disruptions of the COVID-19 pandemic, Ethiopian Airlines appears more determined than ever to lead Africa into a new era of world-class aviation. With its latest aircraft order, the airline reinforces its place as a visionary force in global air travel—one committed to excellence, sustainability, and the continent’s rise as a competitive force in international aviation.

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Ethiopian Airlines Confirms Twin-Aisle Jet Order Amid Bold Fleet Expansion