Ethiopian Airlines Eyes Order for At Least 20 Regional Jets

Key Takeaways

• Ethiopian Airlines plans to order 20-30 regional jets by late 2025 to expand and modernize its fleet.
• Models under consideration: Airbus A220, Embraer E-2, and Boeing 737 MAX 7, with Boeing pending certification.
• Delivery delays from Boeing have pushed Ethiopian Airlines to consider Airbus and Embraer for reliability and efficiency.

Ethiopian Airlines Eyes Major Regional Jet Order to Boost Domestic and Regional Growth

Ethiopian Airlines, the largest and most profitable airline in Africa, is preparing for a major fleet expansion that could reshape air travel across Ethiopia and neighboring countries. As of early June 2025, the airline is actively considering an order for at least 20 new regional jets, with the possibility of ordering up to 30 aircraft. This move, confirmed by CEO Mesfin Tasew Bekele at the International Air Transport Association (IATA) annual meeting, aims to modernize the airline’s domestic fleet, replace older planes, and respond to growing travel demand.

Who is involved? Ethiopian Airlines, led by CEO Mesfin Tasew Bekele, is at the center of this decision. The airline is evaluating aircraft from three major manufacturers: Airbus, Embraer, and Boeing. The models under consideration are the Airbus A220, Embraer E-2, and Boeing 737 MAX 7.

What is happening? The airline is in the process of choosing between these aircraft to order between 20 and 30 jets, each with about 100 seats. The final number will depend on which model is selected and how well it fits Ethiopian Airlines’ needs.

When and where? The evaluation is ongoing, with a decision expected later in 2025. The new jets will be used mainly for domestic flights within Ethiopia and for short routes to nearby countries.

Why is this important? Ethiopian Airlines wants to replace aging planes, improve reliability, and meet rising demand for air travel. The airline also faces delivery delays from Boeing, which has prompted it to consider other manufacturers.

How will this happen? The airline’s technical and financial teams are reviewing the options, negotiating with manufacturers, and will seek board approval before signing any contracts.

Let’s look deeper into the details, the reasons behind this move, and what it means for travelers, the airline, and the wider African aviation industry.

Ethiopian Airlines’ Fleet Expansion: What’s Driving the Decision?

Ethiopian Airlines has a long history of growth and innovation. Over the years, it has built a reputation for reliability and has become a leader in African aviation. The airline’s current fleet is mostly made up of Boeing aircraft, but recent challenges have forced it to rethink its strategy.

Delivery Delays and Supply Chain Problems

In 2023, Ethiopian Airlines placed a large order for 11 Boeing 787 Dreamliners and 20 Boeing 737 MAX jets. However, the airline has faced repeated delivery delays. Some planes have been delayed by three months, others by six months or even longer. These delays have caused operational problems, including grounded planes and the need to lease aircraft to keep up with demand.

CEO Mesfin Tasew Bekele explained, “We are receiving airplanes from both Boeing and Airbus, but deliveries have been delayed, some by three months, some six months, some more.” These delays are not unique to Ethiopian Airlines; they reflect wider supply chain issues affecting the global aviation industry.

Rising Demand for Air Travel

Ethiopia’s economy is growing, and more people are flying than ever before. There is strong demand for flights within Ethiopia and to neighboring countries. The airline needs more planes to keep up with this growth and to offer more frequent flights and new routes.

Need for Modern, Efficient Aircraft

Many of Ethiopian Airlines’ current domestic planes are getting old. Older planes are less fuel-efficient and more expensive to maintain. New regional jets promise better fuel efficiency, lower operating costs, and improved reliability. This will help the airline save money and reduce its impact on the environment.

The Aircraft Under Consideration

Ethiopian Airlines is evaluating three main aircraft models for this order:

• Airbus A220: A modern jet with about 100 seats, known for its fuel efficiency and comfort.
• Embraer E-2: Another 100-seat jet, popular for regional routes and praised for its low operating costs.
• Boeing 737 MAX 7: The smallest member of Boeing’s 737 MAX family, with about 138 seats. However, as of June 2025, this model is still waiting for certification.

The airline’s technical and financial teams are comparing these models to see which one best fits their needs. Factors under review include:

• Fuel efficiency
• Operating costs
• Purchase price
• Delivery timelines
• Support and maintenance packages

The final order size will depend on which aircraft is chosen and how many are needed to meet Ethiopian Airlines’ goals.

Step-by-Step: How Ethiopian Airlines Orders New Planes

Ordering new aircraft is a complex process that involves many steps:

1. Needs Assessment: The airline identifies the need for new regional jets to expand and modernize its fleet.
2. Model Evaluation: Technical and financial teams review the Airbus A220, Embraer E-2, and Boeing 737 MAX 7 for suitability.
3. Negotiations: The airline negotiates with manufacturers on price, delivery schedules, and support packages.
4. Board Approval: Ethiopian Airlines’ board reviews the recommendations and authorizes the purchase.
5. Contract Signing: The airline signs a final agreement with the chosen manufacturer(s).
6. Delivery and Integration: The new planes are delivered and integrated into the fleet, with pilots and crew receiving training as needed.

This careful process ensures that the airline gets the best value and the right aircraft for its needs.

What Does This Mean for Travelers and the Aviation Industry?

For Ethiopian Airlines

• Fleet Modernization: The new regional jets will allow the airline to retire older, less efficient planes. This will improve reliability and reduce maintenance costs.
• Operational Resilience: By considering aircraft from Airbus and Embraer, Ethiopian Airlines is reducing its reliance on Boeing. This is important given the recent delivery delays and certification issues with Boeing.
• Growth and Expansion: The additional jets will help the airline add new routes and increase the frequency of existing flights, both within Ethiopia and to nearby countries.

For Passengers

• More Flights and Destinations: Travelers can expect more options for domestic and regional travel, with new routes and more frequent flights.
• Newer, More Comfortable Planes: The new jets will offer improved comfort, quieter cabins, and better reliability.
• Potential Lower Fares: More flights and competition could lead to lower ticket prices.

For Aircraft Manufacturers

• A Key Order in Africa: Airbus, Embraer, and Boeing are all competing for this significant order. Winning the contract would strengthen their position in the African market.
• Supplier Diversification: Ethiopian Airlines’ willingness to consider all three manufacturers shows that airlines are looking for flexibility and reliability in their suppliers.

For the African Aviation Sector

• Setting a Trend: Ethiopian Airlines is seen as a leader in African aviation. Its decisions often influence other airlines in the region. If Ethiopian chooses Airbus or Embraer, other African carriers may follow.
• Stimulating Investment: A large order like this can encourage more investment in airports, maintenance facilities, and training programs across the region.

Background: Ethiopian Airlines’ Growth and Challenges

Ethiopian Airlines has a strong track record of growth. In 2023, it placed a record order for 31 Boeing aircraft, showing its commitment to expansion. However, the airline has faced several challenges:

• Delivery Delays: Ongoing delays from Boeing have forced the airline to consider other suppliers.
• Supply Chain Disruptions: Global shortages of aircraft parts and engines have led to grounded planes and increased costs.
• Leasing Aircraft: To keep up with demand, Ethiopian Airlines has had to lease planes, which can be more expensive than owning them.

Despite these challenges, the airline remains committed to its long-term plan to modernize its fleet and expand its network.

The Decision Process: What Happens Next?

Ethiopian Airlines is expected to make a final decision on the manufacturer and the number of jets to order by the end of 2025. Once the contract is signed, deliveries will begin, and the new planes will be added to the airline’s domestic and regional network.

The process will include:

• Final Technical and Financial Assessments: Making sure the chosen aircraft meets all operational needs.
• Board Approval: The airline’s board will review and approve the final recommendation.
• Contract Negotiation and Signing: Finalizing the deal with the selected manufacturer.
• Pilot and Crew Training: Ensuring staff are ready to operate the new aircraft.
• Integration into the Fleet: Adding the new jets to the airline’s schedule and routes.

Implications for Immigration and Mobility

While this story is mainly about aviation, it also has important implications for immigration and mobility in Ethiopia and the wider region. Improved air connectivity makes it easier for people to travel for work, study, and family reasons. It can also support tourism and business travel, which are important for economic growth.

For example:

• Easier Domestic Travel: More flights within Ethiopia mean people can move more easily between cities for jobs, education, or family visits.
• Regional Connections: New routes to neighboring countries can help people travel for work or to visit relatives across borders.
• Support for Immigration Services: Airlines like Ethiopian often work closely with immigration authorities to ensure smooth processing of travelers. Improved reliability and more flights can help reduce congestion and delays at airports.

For official information on travel and immigration requirements for Ethiopia, readers can visit the Ethiopian Immigration Nationality and Vital Events Agency, which provides up-to-date details on visas and entry rules.

Expert Perspectives and Industry Analysis

Aviation analysts see Ethiopian Airlines’ move as a smart response to both market growth and the global supply chain crisis. By considering aircraft from Airbus and Embraer, the airline is protecting itself from further delays and showing flexibility in its supplier relationships.

Industry observers also note that Ethiopian Airlines’ decision will likely influence other African carriers. As reported by VisaVerge.com, Ethiopian’s actions often set trends in the region, and a shift away from Boeing could have ripple effects across the continent.

Summary Table: Aircraft Under Consideration

Practical Takeaways and Next Steps

• For Travelers: Watch for announcements from Ethiopian Airlines about new routes and more frequent flights in the coming months.
• For Businesses: Improved air connectivity can support trade, tourism, and investment in Ethiopia and the region.
• For Immigration Stakeholders: More reliable and frequent flights can help manage passenger flows and support smoother immigration processing.
• For Other Airlines: Ethiopian’s decision may influence fleet choices and supplier relationships across Africa.

Where to Find More Information

For the latest updates on Ethiopian Airlines’ fleet plans, visit the official corporate website. For immigration and visa information related to travel in and out of Ethiopia, the Ethiopian Immigration Nationality and Vital Events Agency is the best source.

Conclusion

Ethiopian Airlines’ consideration of a major order for 20 to 30 regional jets marks a turning point in its strategy to modernize its fleet and expand its network. The decision, expected by the end of 2025, will have far-reaching effects on the airline, its passengers, and the wider African aviation industry. By evaluating aircraft from Airbus, Embraer, and Boeing, Ethiopian Airlines is showing flexibility and a commitment to reliability, efficiency, and growth. The outcome of this decision will be closely watched by travelers, industry experts, and competitors across Africa and beyond.

Learn Today

Regional Jets → Small to medium aircraft designed for short to medium flights with about 100 seats.
Certification → Official approval process required for an aircraft model to operate commercially.
Fleet Modernization → Replacing older planes with new, efficient models to improve airline operations.
Delivery Delays → Postponements in receiving ordered aircraft affecting airline schedules and operations.
Supply Chain → Network involved in producing and delivering aircraft parts and planes to manufacturers.

This Article in a Nutshell

Ethiopian Airlines aims to boost domestic and regional air travel with 20-30 new jets. Choosing between Airbus, Embraer, and Boeing, the decision addresses growing demand and outdated aircraft, promising improved reliability and expanded routes across Ethiopia and neighboring countries by late 2025.
— By VisaVerge.com