AerCap has signed lease agreements with Ethiopian Airlines for two Boeing 777-300ERSF converted freighters, with deliveries scheduled for the second quarter of 2028.
The aircraft, a passenger-to-freighter conversion of the 777-300ER, will make Ethiopian Airlines the first operator of the type in Africa. The model offers higher payload capability than smaller twin-engine freighters, targeting long-haul cargo markets.
“We are delighted to deepen our long-standing partnership with Ethiopian Airlines… through this important transaction,” said AerCap chief executive Aengus Kelly. “With 25% more capacity than today’s smaller twin-engine long-haul freighters, the 777-300ERSF delivers significant cost efficiencies.”
Ethiopian Airlines said the addition will expand its cargo capacity as demand for air freight continues to grow. “These aircraft will significantly enhance our cargo capacity and efficiency,” said group chief executive Mesfin Tasew.
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The airline already operates a fleet of 12 factory-built Boeing 777F freighters, positioning it among the largest cargo operators in Africa. The introduction of converted 777-300ERSF aircraft will complement that fleet with additional capacity based on second-hand passenger airframes.
The 777-300ERSF, sometimes referred to as “The Big Twin,” is designed to carry higher volumes over long distances compared with earlier-generation twin-engine freighters, offering airlines an alternative to new-build cargo aircraft.
Israel Aerospace Industries (IAI) completed the first conversion of a Boeing 777-300ER from passenger to freighter configuration in September 2025.
The aircraft has received Supplemental Type Certificate (STC) approval from both the US Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) and the Civil Aviation Authority of Israel (CAAI), authorizing its operation as a dedicated cargo aircraft. The company has not disclosed the expected delivery date for the first converted jet.
AerCap is the launch customer for the 777-300ERSF conversion program, while US-based Kalitta Air is the first operator of the converted aircraft.
