Ethiopian Airlines, Africa’s aviation giant, has announced plans to order at least 20 regional or small narrow-body jets as part of a strategy to expand its domestic network and replace ageing aircraft amid soaring travel demand.
Speaking at the International Air Transport Association (IATA) summit, CEO Mesfin Tasew Bekele confirmed the carrier is currently evaluating three aircraft models: the Embraer E-2, Airbus A220, and Boeing 737 MAX 7. However, Boeing’s offering still awaits certification, possibly delaying a final decision.
Bekele noted that the final order size would depend on the aircraft selected, with the Boeing MAX 7 offering a larger passenger capacity compared to the E-2 and A220, which fall into smaller categories.
Despite robust demand, Ethiopian Airlines—Africa’s largest carrier by passenger numbers, fleet, and destinations—is contending with significant aircraft delivery delays and a shortage of engines, which has grounded part of its fleet.
“Deliveries from both Airbus and Boeing have been delayed, some by three months, others by six or more,” said Bekele. “In addition, we have aircraft grounded due to supply chain disruptions affecting engine maintenance parts.”
Currently, three Boeing 787 widebodies are grounded due to Rolls-Royce engine shortages, while five turboprops remain out of service due to a lack of Pratt & Whitney engines from RTX.
Bekele lamented that engine overhauls, which typically take three months, are now dragging on for six months or longer, impacting operations.
