AerCap Leases Boeing 777-300ERSF Freighters to Ethiopian Airlines

This article is based on an official press release from AerCap.

AerCap Holdings N.V. has officially announced a new lease agreement with Ethiopian Airlines, securing the delivery of two Boeing 777-300ERSF converted freighters. According to a press release from the global aviation leasing company, this transaction marks a significant milestone for the African aviation market, as Ethiopian Airlines will become the first carrier on the continent to operate this specific aircraft type.

The Boeing 777-300ERSF, widely referred to in the industry as “The Big Twin,” is designed to offer substantial payload and volume improvements over older generation freighters. The newly leased aircraft are currently scheduled for delivery to the Addis Ababa-based carrier in the second quarter of 2028.

This strategic fleet expansion aligns with Ethiopian Airlines’ broader growth objectives in the global air freight sector. By integrating these high-capacity converted freighters, the airline aims to modernize its Cargo-Aircraft operations and meet the increasing demand for air logistics across its extensive international network.

Expanding the Ethiopian Airlines Cargo Fleet

First of Its Kind in the Region

The introduction of the Boeing 777-300ERSF to the African market represents a major technological and operational upgrade for regional air freight. In the company press release, AerCap highlighted that the aircraft provides 25 percent more capacity compared to today’s smaller twin-engine long-haul freighters. This increased volume is expected to deliver significant cost efficiencies for operators managing high-demand cargo routes.

AerCap Chief Executive Officer Aengus Kelly emphasized the importance of the partnership and the operational benefits of the new aircraft.

“We are delighted to deepen our long-standing Partnerships with Ethiopian Airlines, the first customer to operate this aircraft type in Africa, through this important transaction,” Kelly stated in the release. “With 25% more capacity than today’s smaller twin-engine long-haul freighters, the 777-300ERSF delivers significant cost efficiencies and will position Ethiopian Airlines to further expand its growing cargo platform.”

Strategic Growth for Ethiopian Airlines

Ethiopian Airlines Group, which currently operates flights to more than 160 domestic and international destinations, has consistently prioritized the expansion of its cargo capabilities. The Airlines‘ leadership views the addition of “The Big Twin” as a critical step in supporting regional trade and cementing its status as a leading global aviation group.

Ethiopian Airlines Group CEO Mesfin Tasew echoed this sentiment, noting the broader economic impact of the fleet upgrade.

“We are delighted to partner with AerCap to bring the first Boeing 777-300ERSF to Africa,” Tasew said in the official announcement. “These aircraft will significantly enhance our cargo capacity and efficiency, boosting trade in the region.”

AerCap’s Leasing Leadership

Global Reach and Delivery Timeline

As the global leader in aviation leasing, AerCap serves approximately 300 customers worldwide. The Dublin-headquartered lessor maintains one of the industry’s most robust order books, providing comprehensive fleet solutions that include passenger aircraft, cargo conversions, engines, and helicopters. The successful placement of these two 777-300ERSF aircraft underscores AerCap’s pivotal role in facilitating the modernization of airline fleets globally.

The Delivery timeline set for Q2 2028 indicates a forward-looking fleet strategy for Ethiopian Airlines, allowing the carrier to plan its route network expansion and cargo logistics well in advance.

AirPro News analysis

The decision by Ethiopian Airlines to lease the Boeing 777-300ERSF highlights a growing trend among major global carriers to invest in passenger-to-freighter (P2F) conversions. As e-commerce and global supply chain demands continue to rise, the need for high-capacity, cost-efficient freighters has become paramount. The 777-300ERSF offers a compelling alternative to purpose-built freighters by maximizing the utility of existing airframes while delivering superior volume. For Ethiopian Airlines, securing these assets ensures they remain highly competitive in the lucrative Europe-Africa and Asia-Africa trade corridors.

Frequently Asked Questions

What aircraft is Ethiopian Airlines leasing from AerCap?
According to the AerCap press release, Ethiopian Airlines is leasing two Boeing 777-300ERSF converted freighters, also known as “The Big Twin.”

When will the new freighters be delivered?
The deliveries for the two Boeing 777-300ERSF aircraft are scheduled for the second quarter of 2028.

What are the benefits of the Boeing 777-300ERSF?
The aircraft offers 25 percent more capacity than current smaller twin-engine long-haul freighters, providing significant cost efficiencies and enhanced cargo volume.

Sources

• AerCap