Ethiopian Airlines is committed to two Israel Aerospace Industries (IAI) 777-300ERSF freighters from AerCap that will be delivered in 2028. AerCap is a partner with IAI on the 777-300ER passenger to freight (P2F) conversion program. The aircraft will be delivered in the second quarter of 2028.
The agreement is the first for a carrier in Africa to acquire a large freighter. The conversion program received its type certificate in 2025 and has both Israeli and FAA certification. The first aircraft is already in service with Kalitta Air in the US. This bodes well for the IAI-AerCap P2F conversion program.
Ethiopian has longstanding partnerships with AerCap and IAI, having previously converted several 767-300ER in a P2F conversion program with the same partners. Group CEO Mesfin Tasew said, “We are delighted to partner with AerCap to bring the first Boeing 777-300ERSF to Africa. These aircraft will significantly enhance our cargo capacity and efficiency, boosting trade in the region. As demand for air freight continues to grow, Ethiopian Airlines remains committed to investing in modern, sustainable solutions that cement our position in the global cargo market.”
“We are delighted to deepen our long-standing partnership with Ethiopian Airlines – the first customer to operate this aircraft type in Africa – through this important transaction,” said Aengus Kelly, Chief Executive Officer of AerCap. “With 25% more capacity than today’s smaller twin-engine long-haul freighters, the 777-300ERSF delivers significant cost efficiencies and will position Ethiopian Airlines to further expand its growing cargo platform. We are proud to support Ethiopian Airlines and wish them continued success as they scale and strengthen their operations.”
The 777-300ERSF, also known as the “Big Twin,” offers roughly 25% more capacity than smaller twin-engine freighters, and has higher capacity than Boeing’s 777F factory freighter based on the smaller 777-200. Ethiopian operates several 777F freighters and has the 777-8F included in its orders and options with Boeing. The “Big Twin” offers a significant increase in capacity with an aircraft that the airlines are already familiar with, as they already operate the 777-300ER.
The Bottom Line
Africa’s leading airline is once again expanding its position in the growing freight market in Africa. Based on past performance, the new “Big Twin” aircraft will be a profitable addition to the Ethiopian fleet.
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