Ethiopian Airlines is reportedly considering purchasing up to 10 freighters from Boeing, including 777Fs and new generation 777-8Fs.
According to Reuters two industry sources have stated Ethiopian Airlines is nearing a deal for the freighters, which are expected to include two 777Fs.
Air Cargo News has contacted Boeing and Ethiopian Airlines for comment.
Data from Planespotters shows that Ethiopian Airlines currently has 12 777Fs, four converted 737-800Fs; and three 767-300Fs, one of which is converted. These are operated by Ethiopian Cargo.
The rumoured deal points to a strategic move by Ethiopian to secure capacity more quickly with the 777Fs as it would face a lengthy wait for any 777-8F orders to be fulfilled.
The exact timeline of entry into service of the 777-8F depends on Boeing gaining certification for the 777-9 model, which will be the first of the 777X family to enter service and open the way for other models in the family to follow suit.
Boeing had initially hoped to start delivering the aircraft to customers in 2027 but this been pushed back into 2028.
Boeing has also seen sustained demand for the 777F, which has a revenue payload of 102 tonnes and a range of 4,970 nautical miles.
In December, the aircraft manufacturer filed an emissions exemption petition with the US Department of Transportation (DOT) to enable it to continue selling 777 freighters beyond the end of 2027 and bridge the gap until its 777-8 freighter comes to market.
The company said it aimed to sell 35 more 777Fs, but the FAA is currently still considering the exemption request.
Without an exemption, these aircraft would not be eligible for a Certificate of Airworthiness from 1 January 2028 because they do not comply with fuel efficiency limits to curb emissions.
Boeing recorded a total of 15 777 freighter orders and 35 777 freighter deliveries last year. The company’s order and deliveries data shows 16 777Fs have been delivered to customers so far this year.
