In 2024, Ethiopian Airlines became the first African carrier to order the 777X, with an agreement to purchase eight 777-9s and options for another 12. Ethiopian Airlines have signed an MOU in 2022 with the intent to purchase five 777-8 Freighters, the industry’s newest, most capable and most fuel-efficient twin-engine freighter. Earlier models of the 777 are currently operated in Africa by Air Austral, Air Zimbabwe, Alexandria Airlines, CEIBA Intercontinental, EgyptAir, Ethiopian Airlines and TAAG Angolan Airlines.
In August 2024, Boeing signed with the Nigerian Ministry of Aviation and Aerospace Development an MoU to strengthen Nigeria’s aviation sector. As part of a strategic relationship with the ministry and Nigerian airlines, Boeing will provide planning workshops, training, technical support and assessments to Airline Operators of Nigeria.
Boeing and Ethiopian Airlines entered into a strategic memorandum of understanding (MoU). This comprehensive agreement encompasses four key areas of collaboration: industrial development, advanced aviation training, educational partnerships and leadership development.
Similarly, Boeing signed an MoU with Air Tanzania to enhance safety measures, refine strategic planning and cultivate leadership capabilities.
Boeing works closely with airlines in Africa, the African Airlines Association (AFRAA) and the Airlines Association of Southern Africa (AASA) to strengthen aviation safety on the continent.
Boeing is also advocating for the Single African Air Transport Market, an initiative by the African Union to enhance connectivity, and facilitate the growth of the aviation industry across the continent by removing barriers and restrictions on air travel between African countries.
With the increasing rates of urbanization and a growing middle-class population, Africa is forecast to see strong passenger and cargo traffic and airplane demand growth in the next two decades. Boeing forecasts that African carriers will require 1,170 new airplane deliveries and 76,000 aviation personnel over the next 20 years.