The Dubai Airshow 2025 opened this morning, and Boeing announced two orders for the 737 MAX from African customers, Ethiopian and Air Senegal for 11 aircraft and 9 firm plus 6 options, respectively.
Ethiopian Airlines
Ethiopian Airlines signed for 11 more 737 MAX 8 to its fleet this morning in Dubai to support regional and international network growth. “We are thrilled to be announcing our agreement with Boeing for 11 additional 737-8 airplanes today during Dubai Airshow,” stated Ethiopian’s CEO Mesfin Tasew. “The order will support our growth plans that we have set as part of our vision and strategy. We are happy that our partnership with Boeing continues to grow over the years and we look forward to flying Boeing airplanes for years to come, and that we will continue to serve our customers by bringing them high performance airplanes with passenger comfort.”
Brad McMullen, Boeing Sr. VP of Commercial Sales and Marketing stated “Ethiopian Airlines’ commitment to expand its 737 MAX fleet underscores its leadership in Africa. Our new agreement also strengthens our nearly 80-year partnership with the airline and region. We are proud that our efficient and versatile airplanes will continue to play a pivotal role in Ethopian Airlines’ growth as they further connect the African continent and the world.”
Air Senegal
Air Senegal has inked a letter of intent to order 9 Boeing 737-8 aircraft, with options for 6 additional aircraft in the largest order in the history of the airline. “This acquisition marks a major milestone for Air Sénégal,” said chief executive officer Tidiane Ndiaye. “This order is part of Air Sénégal’s strategy to strengthen and modernize its fleet in order to support the expansion of its regional and intercontinental network and reinforce Dakar’s position as a leading aviation hub in West Africa.”
“We look forward to welcoming Air Senegal to the 737 MAX family as they leverage the versatility, reliability and advanced technology of the 737-8 to support their growth ambitions,” said Brad McMullen, Boeing senior vice president of Commercial Sales and Marketing. “We are committed to sustainable development of air travel in the region and will partner with Air Senegal as they enhance their fleet and passenger experience.”
The Bottom Line
Boeing is improving its position in Africa, and has received a vote of confidence from Ethiopian despite the fatal crash in 2018 that grounded the worldwide fleet for 20 months. With strong carriers operating Boeing aircraft on both the East and West Africa to smaller cities in Europe, direct flights will now be both feasible and enable easier connections for passengers.
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