The airline has selected the GEnx-1B engine to power 11 new Boeing 787-9 Dreamliners. This selection will increase Ethiopian’s GEnx-powered fleet from 19 to 30 aircraft, marking a major expansion of the airline’s long-haul, fuel-efficient operations.

In parallel, Ethiopian Airlines has reaffirmed its previous order of GE9X engines to power eight Boeing 777-9s, with options for an additional six aircraft. These high-performance engines represent the latest in propulsion technology, supporting Ethiopian’s goals for fuel efficiency, sustainability, and fleet modernisation.

The comprehensive deal includes maintenance, repair, and overhaul (MRO) agreements for both engine types, demonstrating a deepening partnership between the two aviation giants.

“Our partnership with GE Aerospace has been instrumental in enabling us to deliver world-class service to our passengers as Africa’s leading airline,” said Mesfin Tasew, Group CEO of Ethiopian Airlines. “These agreements reflect our commitment to fleet modernisation, operational efficiency, and sustainability as we continue to connect Africa to the world.”

GE Aerospace also expressed pride in its longstanding collaboration with Ethiopian Airlines.

“We are honoured to deepen our collaboration with Ethiopian Airlines, a valued partner for many years, and proud to support their mission to connect the world while advancing the future of sustainable aviation,” said Russell Stokes, President and CEO of GE Aerospace Commercial Engines and Services.

The GE9X engine is the most powerful commercial aircraft engine ever built and the most fuel-efficient in its class, designed exclusively for Boeing’s 777X family. It offers a 10% improvement in specific fuel consumption compared to its predecessor, the GE90-115B, and is engineered for a new generation of sustainable aviation performance.

Meanwhile, the GEnx engine family, introduced in 2011, has surpassed 62 million flight hours and powers two-thirds of all Boeing 787s in service today. It is the fastest-selling, high-thrust engine in GE’s history, with over 3,600 engines in operation or on order.

Both the GEnx and GE9X engines are certified to operate on Sustainable Aviation Fuel (SAF) blends, reinforcing Ethiopian’s alignment with global sustainability standards.

The new agreements highlight a continuation of the decades-long partnership between Ethiopian Airlines and GE Aerospace, which dates back to 2003. As part of its strategic ‘Vision 2035’ plan, Ethiopian is poised to elevate its standing among the top 20 global aviation groups, backed by fleet expansion, regional hubs, and advanced aviation technology.