Dhaka: Ethiopian Airlines, Africa’s largest carrier, has agreed to purchase 11 additional Boeing 737-8 jets, the airline and Boeing said on Monday (Nov 17), in a deal signed at the Dubai Airshow.

The new aircraft will help Ethiopian expand its regional and international routes and grow its Addis Ababa hub. “This order will support our growth plans and strengthen our long-standing partnership with Boeing,” Ethiopian Airlines Group CEO Mesfin Tasew said.

Boeing Senior Vice President Brad McMullen said the deal highlights Ethiopian Airlines’ leadership in Africa and strengthens the nearly 80-year partnership between Boeing and the carrier.

Ethiopian operates the continent’s largest Boeing fleet and has the largest backlog of 737 MAXs, 777X, and 787 Dreamliners in Africa.

Separately, Boeing and Air Senegal announced that the West African airline has committed to order nine 737 MAX aircraft. The deal, the first Boeing order for Air Senegal since 2004, will be the airline’s largest-ever fleet purchase.

Air Senegal plans to use the 737-8 to expand its European network and launch routes to the Middle East and Americas, while also serving secondary European cities.

“This acquisition is part of Air Senegal’s strategy to modernize its fleet and expand regional and intercontinental operations,” CEO Tidiane Ndiaye said.

The 737-8 carries up to 178 passengers in a two-class layout and has a range of 3,500 nautical miles (6,480 km). Boeing said the jet reduces fuel use and emissions by 20pc and has a 50pc smaller noise footprint than the aircraft it replaces.

“We look forward to welcoming Air Senegal to the 737 MAX family,” McMullen said, emphasizing Boeing’s commitment to sustainable air travel in the region.

-B