ADDIS ABABA, June 7 – Ethiopian Airlines is expected to make a decision within the next three months on a proposed order for 25 regional passenger aircraft as the carrier seeks to expand its domestic and short-haul African operations.
Chief Executive Officer Mesfin Tasew Bekele said the airline is currently evaluating several aircraft options for the planned fleet expansion.
The shortlisted aircraft include the Airbus A220, the Embraer E2 and the Boeing 737 MAX 7, which is expected to receive certification from US aviation regulators this year.
The aircraft would primarily be deployed on domestic routes within Ethiopia as well as services connecting neighboring African countries, supporting the airline’s broader growth strategy across regional markets.
Ethiopian Airlines currently operates a fleet of approximately 147 aircraft and remains Africa’s largest carrier by fleet size, network reach and passenger traffic.
The planned acquisition reflects continued demand for smaller and more fuel-efficient aircraft capable of serving regional destinations where traffic volumes may not justify larger narrow-body jets.
The airline’s expansion plans come amid a challenging operating environment for global carriers.
Like many airlines worldwide, Ethiopian Airlines has faced rising fuel costs following disruptions in global energy markets linked to tensions in the Middle East.
According to Bekele, the airline’s jet fuel expenditure has increased by approximately 60%, significantly raising operating costs across its network.
The carrier has also adjusted some Middle East services to reflect softer passenger demand, including reducing flight frequencies on certain routes.
Flights to Dubai, for example, have been reduced from three daily services to two.
Despite higher fuel costs, the airline said it has successfully addressed concerns around fuel supply availability and is no longer experiencing shortages.
The planned aircraft order underscores Ethiopian Airlines’ long-term commitment to expanding connectivity across Africa while strengthening its position as one of the continent’s leading aviation operators.
The investment is also expected to support growing demand for air travel within East Africa and reinforce the airline’s role as a major hub carrier connecting African markets to global destinations.
