Ethiopian Airlines Confirms Order for 11 Boeing 737 MAX Jets at Dubai Airshow
Ethiopian Airlines has made headlines by securing an option from a previous order with Boeing, acquiring 11 additional Boeing 737 MAX jets on the first day of the Dubai Airshow 2025.
During a press conference on November 17, 2025, Mesfin Tasew, CEO of Ethiopian Airlines Group, confirmed to AeroTime that this agreement is part of an established contract.
As per this new deal, Ethiopian Airlines plans to enhance its regional and international networks by purchasing 11 737-8 jets, further bolstering its hub in Addis Ababa.
Tasew also mentioned that the airline is currently assessing both Boeing and Airbus widebody aircraft for future orders, alongside additional single-aisle Boeing options.
Ethiopian Airlines’ Commitment to Growth
“We are thrilled to announce our agreement with Boeing for an additional 11 737-8 airplanes during the Dubai Airshow,” Tasew expressed. “This order aligns with our growth strategy and vision. We are pleased that our long-standing partnership with Boeing continues to flourish, allowing us to serve our customers better with high-performance airplanes that prioritize passenger comfort.”
At the Dubai Airshow 2023, Ethiopian Airlines also placed an order for 11 787 Dreamliners and 20 737 MAX aircraft, with options for an additional 36 jets.
“Ethiopian Airlines’ dedication to expanding its 737 MAX fleet highlights its leading position in Africa,” said Brad McMullen, Boeing’s Senior Vice President of Commercial Sales and Marketing. He further stated, “We take pride in the efficient and adaptable aircraft that will continue to significantly contribute to Ethiopian Airlines’ growth, connecting Africa with the globe.”
CDB Aviation Joins the Partnership
In related news, it was announced on November 17, 2025, that CDB Aviation will lease two Boeing 737 MAX 8 jets to Ethiopian Airlines.
These two aircraft are set to be delivered in the first half of 2026.
Jie Chen, CEO of CDB Aviation, remarked, “We are honored to welcome Ethiopian Airlines to our global family of clients with these lease agreements for the two Boeing 737 MAX 8 aircraft scheduled for delivery in 2026.”
He added, “The African aviation sector is on the brink of substantial growth, with a rising population eager to travel for both business and leisure. Ethiopian Airlines is well-positioned to enhance connectivity across the continent, making air travel more accessible.”
AeroTime is providing live coverage from the Dubai Airshow 2025, delivering the latest news and exclusive insights throughout the event.
Have you considered how Ethiopian Airlines’ expanding fleet might influence air travel in Africa?
Similar Posts
Stowaway on Delta Flight from Salt Lake City to Austin Pleads Guilty
A 27-year-old man, Wicliff Yves Fleurizard, pleaded guilty for stowing away on a Delta flight from Salt Lake City to Austin using a young girl’s boarding pass. The incident raised significant security concerns at Salt Lake City International Airport, where Fleurizard photographed a passenger’s mobile boarding pass to gain access. After boarding, he attempted to hide in the lavatory but was discovered due to suspicious behavior. Fleurizard’s actions may lead to a maximum of five years in prison and a $250,000 fine. This incident, alongside a similar case in November, prompted the TSA to review airport security protocols.
EaseMyTrip CEO Nishant Pitti Targets Go First Assets
The National Company Law Appellate Tribunal (NCLAT) has offered hope for Go First Airways, which is undergoing liquidation. Busy Bee Airways, backed by EaseMyTrip’s CEO Nishant Pitti, has been permitted to propose an asset buyout plan, potentially altering the airline’s future. Go First, which ceased operations in May 2023 due to financial troubles linked to engine supply issues, was ordered to liquidate in January 2025. Despite the challenges, it retains valuable assets. The NCLAT’s decision allows Busy Bee to negotiate with creditors, raising prospects for Go First’s revival amid ongoing insolvency proceedings.
PNG Air Grows Its Fleet with Two New ATR 72-600 Aircraft from ACIA Aer Leasing
ACIA Aero Leasing recently announced the successful delivery of two ATR…
Air Transat Pilots Start Negotiations for New Contract
Air Transat pilots, represented by the Air Line Pilots Association (ALPA), have begun new contract negotiations with management, aiming to improve working conditions and align contracts with industry standards. The existing agreement, in place since 2015, is being revisited in light of recent competitive agreements by Air Canada and WestJet. Key priorities include job security, competitive salaries, enhanced insurance, and improved retirement packages. The pilots, united in their efforts, emphasize the importance of a timely resolution, especially given their role in servicing over 2.5 million passengers annually. ALPA is advocating for a fair agreement that reflects current aviation standards.
European Airlines Update US Flight Schedules for 2026
European airlines, including Lufthansa, KLM, and British Airways, have announced enhanced US flight schedules for Summer 2026, starting March 29, 2026. These updates reflect strong demand for transatlantic travel, particularly to emerging US markets. Key improvements include Lufthansa’s A340-300 to Austin, KLM’s larger 787-10 to Portland, and British Airways increasing Austin flights from 13 to 14 weekly. Additionally, Delta and Virgin Atlantic are adjusting their networks, with Delta adding a second daily flight from London to Seattle. While these schedules may evolve, they emphasize the focus on secondary US markets as vital to European carriers’ strategies.
Cebu Pacific Announces Direct Flights from Manila to Sapporo
Cebu Pacific Air will launch direct flights from Manila to Sapporo, Japan, starting January 16, 2025. The airline will operate three flights per week—Tuesdays, Thursdays, and Saturdays—making it the only carrier on this route. This initiative aims to shorten travel time to about five hours, significantly reducing the lengthy layovers associated with other airlines. Cebu Pacific’s President, Xander Lao, highlighted the airline’s commitment to expanding its international network. Travelers can look forward to Sapporo’s winter attractions, including the Snow Festival and ski resorts. The airline currently serves 35 domestic and 27 international destinations.