Ethiopian Airlines is exploring the potential for a significant order of regional jets, with major manufacturers Airbus, Boeing, and Embraer all vying for this promising contract.
The airline’s CEO, Mesfin Tasew Bekele, shared insights with Reuters during the International Air Transport Association (IATA) Annual General Meeting (AGM), where he confirmed the airline is contemplating an order of at least 20 regional or small jets.
As reported, Bekele indicated that he is “evaluating” three aircraft models: the Embraer E2, the Airbus A220, and the Boeing 737 MAX 7, which is still awaiting certification. The exact number of jets to be ordered will depend on the specific aircraft model selected.
During the discussion, the CEO expressed concerns regarding delays in aircraft deliveries and complications with engine maintenance, which have recently led Ethiopian Airlines to temporarily ground some 787 Dreamliners and their turboprop fleet.
“We are receiving airplanes from both Boeing and Airbus, but deliveries have been delayed—some by three months, others by six months or more,” Bekele informed Reuters.
Currently, Ethiopian Airlines has a diverse array of aircraft on order from Boeing and Airbus, which includes 11 Boeing 787-9 Dreamliners, eight 777-9s, and 11 Airbus A350-900s.
On June 1, 2025, the airline inaugurated a new passenger route to Sharjah in the United Arab Emirates (UAE). This new service will operate four times a week, establishing it as the second passenger destination for Ethiopian Airlines in the UAE.
“We are excited to provide our passengers with another travel option in the UAE through our new flights to Sharjah. For nearly fifty years, we have fostered connections between the UAE and Africa, and this service will further enhance the investment, tourism, diplomatic, and socioeconomic ties between the two regions,” said Bekele.
Ethiopian Airlines boasts a fleet that includes Boeing 737s, 777s, 787s, Airbus A350-900s, A350-1000s, and De Havilland Q400 aircraft.
Based on an article from aerotime.aero: https://www.aerotime.aero/articles/ethiopian-airlines-order-airbus-embraer-boeing
