Ethiopian Airlines is reportedly close to a deal with Boeing for up to 10 long-haul cargo aircraft.
The potential order comes as Africa’s largest airline expands its freight business. At the same time, it is developing a new $12.5 billion airport near Addis Ababa.
The possible deal could include two Boeing 777 freighters and several newer 777-8F aircraft. However, neither Boeing nor Ethiopian Airlines has announced a final agreement.
Ethiopian Airlines Boeing deal could expand cargo fleet
Ethiopian Airlines already operates 12 Boeing 777 freighters.
Its cargo business transported about 897,000 tonnes during the latest financial year. That represented a 16% increase from the previous year.
The airline carries goods ranging from flowers and fresh produce to pharmaceuticals and industrial equipment.
Moreover, Addis Ababa’s location gives Ethiopian Airlines an important advantage. The carrier can collect cargo from across Africa before moving it to markets in Asia, Europe, the Middle East and the Americas.
The new aircraft would therefore support further growth in the airline’s international cargo network.
However, Boeing is not the only option.
Ethiopian Airlines has also considered Airbus’s A350F cargo aircraft. As a result, Boeing has not yet secured the reported deal.
$12.5bn Bishoftu airport takes shape
The possible aircraft purchase comes alongside an even larger Ethiopian Airlines project.
Construction of Bishoftu International Airport officially began in January 2026. The new hub is being developed about 40 kilometres from Addis Ababa.
The first phase is expected to cost around $12.5 billion.
Once that phase is complete, the airport should be able to serve 60 million passengers every year. Eventually, capacity could rise to 110 million passengers annually.
That would make Bishoftu the largest airport in Africa by passenger capacity, according to Ethiopian Airlines.
The project is also expected to significantly increase Ethiopia’s ability to handle international cargo.
Ethiopian Airlines says the airport will support trade, tourism and stronger connections between Africa and the rest of the world.
Cargo expansion strengthens Ethiopia’s aviation ambitions
The Ethiopian Airlines Boeing deal, if completed, would form another part of the carrier’s wider expansion strategy.
However, the negotiations also come at an important time for Boeing.
The current 777F faces production limits linked to new emissions standards. Meanwhile, delays have affected the introduction of the next-generation 777-8F.
An Ethiopian Airlines order involving both aircraft could help bridge that transition.
For Ethiopia, meanwhile, additional freighters would provide more cargo capacity as the airline prepares for its new aviation hub.
Still, the deal remains under negotiation. Until either company makes an official announcement, the number and type of aircraft could change.