Ethiopian Airlines is preparing to introduce flights to Australia by 2028, pending the acquisition of additional widebody aircraft capable of operating ultra-long-haul routes. Group CEO Mesfin Tasew recently announced that the airline aims to secure at least two such aircraft, with deliveries expected around 2028. The airline currently operates a fleet including Airbus A350-900s and B787-9s, with plans for incremental expansion.
The airline has outstanding orders for seventeen Airbus A350-900s, twenty Boeing B787-9s, and eight B777-9s. Its existing fleet comprises four Airbus A350-1000s, twenty-two A350-900s, and various Boeing widebodies, totaling 152 aircraft and serving 172 destinations across five continents. The ultimate goal is to connect Ethiopia with Australia, making it the only African carrier serving all inhabited continents.
Fleet Development and Route Planning
According to Tasew, the airline is scheduled to receive narrowbody Boeing B737-8s over the next two years, adding to the existing 22 in operation. The larger, ultra-long-range widebodies have yet to be delivered, with the first arrival anticipated in 2028. Ethiopian is considering routes to two Australian cities, though the final decision remains unannounced, contingent upon aircraft availability and other logistical factors.
This quote: "We need to secure at least two large aircraft to operate to the continent," said CEO Tasew. "It will take at least two years to receive aircraft from manufacturers."
The airline's expansion into Australia aims to establish a key strategic link and enhance its global connectivity. Tasew emphasized that the timeline depends on aircraft delivery and securing necessary operational assets. The airline currently operates 152 aircraft, serving as a major carrier in Africa with 500 daily flights.
