Traditional Boeing customer, Ethiopian Airlines is also expected to be the operator of the 777-9, its new and largest twin-engine widebody.
The African carrier reached an agreement to receive eight jets in addition to 12 purchase options. In addition to first-generation 787 and 777 models, Ethiopian also flies the Airbus A350, a rival to the 777X.
“Improving our operational performance and commitment to environmental sustainability, the 777-9 offers more flexibility, reduced fuel consumption and carbon emissions,” said Ethiopian Airlines Group CEO Mr. Mesfin Tasew.
“Ethiopian Airlines marks yet another first in our longstanding partnership by selecting the 777-9 to be the flagship of its growing fleet,” said Brad McMullen, Boeing senior vice president of Commercial Sales and Marketing.
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The deal, however, has not yet been signed, which means it is not expected to appear in Boeing’s order book.
Ethiopian currently has 20 777 jets, ten of them freighters. There are also six 777-200s and four 777-300ERs that are used on its long-haul routes.
The 777-9 is scheduled to enter service in 2025, however, the problems faced by Boeing in its assembly lines could make certification of the aircraft longer.
There are 453 firm orders for the 777X family, most for the 777-9 variant, which can carry 426 passengers in two classes.
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