Ethiopian Airlines CEO Mesfin Tasew is expecting to place a firm order for eight more widebodies, plus eight options, before year-end.
The order builds on Ethiopian’s recent commitments for 20 Boeing 737-8s, 11 787–9s and 11 Airbus A350-900s that were announced at the Dubai Airshow.
Ethiopian Airlines Chief Commercial Officer Lemma Yadecha recently told Aviation Daily that Ethiopian was also looking to finalize a deal for 10 to 20 777Xs or A350-1000s in Dubai, but the details took too long to iron out.
Speaking to Aviation Daily in London on Dec. 5, Tasew said there will be “a decision and announcement before the end of the year.”
He added that the deal will comprise eight firm aircraft and eight options, but Tasew declined to comment on whether Airbus or Boeing had won the order.
Ethiopian is also about to open a request for proposals for 120-seat aircraft. This process is likely to take about a year, with the Airbus A220 and Embraer E2 in contention.
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