ADDIS ABABA— Ethiopian Airlines (ET) has opened preliminary discussions with European aircraft manufacturer Airbus over a potential order for new widebody and regional aircraft as the African carrier accelerates its global expansion strategy.
The talks involve a possible purchase of around six Airbus A350 jets and approximately 20 Airbus A220 regional aircraft, according to reports citing people familiar with the matter.
The Addis Ababa Bole International Airport (ADD)-based airline is evaluating fleet growth opportunities while facing continued delivery delays from Boeing aircraft orders.
Ethiopian Airlines is also expanding airport infrastructure and route connectivity as it aims to strengthen its position against major international carriers, including Emirates and Turkish Airlines.
Photo: Eurospot
Ethiopian Airlines Airbus Order Talks
Ethiopian Airlines is reportedly assessing the addition of Airbus aircraft to support both regional African operations and long-haul international services.
The proposed deal includes Airbus A350 widebody aircraft for intercontinental routes and Airbus A220 jets designed for shorter regional sectors with lower passenger demand.
Industry analysts view the discussions as strategically important for Airbus because Ethiopian Airlines has historically maintained a fleet dominated by Boeing aircraft.
The airline already operates Airbus A350 aircraft, but Boeing models such as the 737, 777, and 787 remain central to its operations.
No final agreement has been announced, and airline executives have not confirmed the exact number of aircraft under consideration. Sources familiar with the negotiations indicated the discussions remain at an early stage, Business Insider Africa flagged.
Photo: Eurospot
Ethiopian Airlines: Fleet Expansion Plans
Ethiopian Airlines currently operates a fleet of nearly 150 aircraft serving destinations across Africa, Europe, Asia, the Middle East, and North America.
The carrier also has more than 60 Boeing aircraft on order as part of its long-term fleet modernization strategy.
The airline previously disclosed plans to acquire at least 20 regional or small narrowbody aircraft to strengthen domestic and short-haul connectivity across Africa. The Airbus A220 has emerged as a potential candidate because of its fuel efficiency and operational flexibility on thinner routes.
Aircraft delivery delays from Boeing have also increased pressure on airlines globally, including Ethiopian Airlines, which continues expanding despite supply chain challenges affecting aircraft manufacturing.
Industry demand for fuel-efficient jets has intensified as airlines seek to reduce operating costs and modernize fleets.
Photo: Ethiopian Airlines
New Airport Project at Bishoftu
Ethiopian Airlines is simultaneously investing in one of Africa’s largest aviation infrastructure projects near Bishoftu, located about 45 kilometers southeast of Addis Ababa.
The proposed airport development carries an estimated cost of $12.5 billion and aims to transform Ethiopia into a major global aviation hub.
The first development phase, targeted for completion around 2030, is expected to accommodate 60 million passengers annually.
Long-term expansion plans could increase airport capacity to nearly 110 million passengers by 2036, potentially making it one of the world’s busiest airports.
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