Ethiopian Airlines is considering a significant order for regional jets, with major manufacturers Airbus, Boeing, and Embraer vying for the opportunity. This potential deal could see a double-digit number of aircraft procured.
During the International Air Transport Association (IATA) Annual General Meeting (AGM), CEO Mesfin Tasew Bekele confirmed that the airline is evaluating at least 20 regional or small jets. He spoke to Reuters about the ongoing discussions.
As reported, Bekele is currently assessing three specific aircraft models: the Embraer E2, the Airbus A220, and the new Boeing 737 MAX 7, which is yet to receive certification. The precise number of jets to be ordered will be decided based on the models chosen.
During the conversation, Bekele expressed concerns regarding delays in aircraft deliveries and challenges related to engine maintenance, which have recently forced Ethiopian Airlines to ground several 787 Dreamliners and turboprops.
“We are receiving airplanes from both Boeing and Airbus, but deliveries have been delayed—some by three months, others by six months, and even longer,” Bekele stated.
Ethiopian Airlines already has various aircraft on order from Boeing and Airbus, including 11 Boeing 787-9 Dreamliners, eight Boeing 777-9s, and 11 Airbus A350-900s.
On June 1, 2025, the airline launched a new passenger route to Sharjah, United Arab Emirates (UAE). This new service will offer four flights each week to the UAE’s third largest emirate, marking the airline’s second passenger destination within the country.
“We are excited to provide our passengers with another travel destination in the UAE through our new flights to Sharjah. For nearly fifty years, we have been fostering connections between the UAE and Africa, and this service is set to enhance investment, tourism, diplomatic relations, and socioeconomic ties between the two regions,” Bekele remarked.
The current fleet of Ethiopian Airlines boasts a variety of aircraft, including Boeing 737s, 777s, 787s, Airbus A350-900s, A350-1000s, and De Havilland Q400s.
Based on an article from aerotime.aero: https://www.aerotime.aero/articles/ethiopian-airlines-order-airbus-embraer-boeing
