Reuters reported on 2 September that Ethiopian Airlines is nearing a deal to buy up to 10 long-haul freighters from Boeing. The intended order is expected to include two current-generation Boeing 777Fs, with the remainder potentially made up of the newer 777-8F.
Two industry sources told Reuters the deal could cover eight to 10 aircraft, with the exact composition subject to change. Neither Boeing nor Ethiopian Airlines immediately commented on the report.
Ethiopian Airlines operates 12 777Fs, along with three Boeing 767 freighters and four converted 737 freighters. Its cargo business handled around 897,000 metric tons of freight in 2025, a 16% increase from the prior year.
The report also noted that Boeing, facing emissions rules taking effect in 2028, plans to end 777F production at the end of 2027 and has asked the FAA for permission to build 35 additional 777Fs beyond the deadline.