Ethiopian Airlines Receives Africa’s First Boeing 777 Freighter

Addis Ababa, Ethiopia -(Press Release) - In another milestone, Ethiopian Airlines again led the African aviation industry by being the first in the continent to receive and operate the B777 Freighter.

Ethiopian Airlines CEO, Tewolde Gebremariam said: “The B777 Freighter aircraft has unparalleled performance in its category fleet with its long-range capability, exceptional cargo uplift, special capabilities in temperature control for fresh produce and life science materials, and fuel efficiency. As a result, we will deploy this aircraft on longer routes for carriage of flowers, fruits and vegetables with the aim of expanding and improving our cargo service in support of our national fast growing exports.”

With arrival of this aircraft, Ethiopian Cargo will be able to consolidate its unrivaled service level in Africa with a fleet of 6 dedicated freighters and a fast expanding network of 15 destinations in Africa, 7 in Middle East and 2 in Europe.

The aircraft will arrive at Addis Ababa Bole Airport on September 20, 2012. Ethiopian will host a major reception in the presence of high government officials, investors, exporters, media and other invited guests at the airport cargo terminal in celebration of Africa’s first B777F.

About Ethiopian

Airlines Ethiopian Airlines, the fastest growing airline in Africa, made its maiden international flight to Cairo in 1946 and now the Airline provides dependable services to 69 international destinations spanning four continents.

Ethiopian is proud to be a Star Alliance Member. The Star Alliance network is the leading global airline network offering customers convenient worldwide reach and a smoother travel experience. The Star Alliance network offers more than 21,555 daily flights to 1,356 airports in 193 countries.

Ethiopian is a multi-award winner for its commitment and contributions towards the development and growth of the African aviation industry and in recognition of its distinguished long-haul operations enhanced by the introduction of new routes and products. Recently, Ethiopian won Gold in the African Airline of the Year 2011/2012 Awards organized by the African Aviation News Portal. Ethiopian also received the 2011 AFRAA award for being consistently profitable over the years and has won the “AFRICAN CARGO AIRLINE OF THE YEAR 2011 Award” for its excellence in air cargo. Ethiopian also won the NEPAD Transport Infrastructure Excellence Awards 2009 and “the Airline of the Year 2009 Award” from the African Airlines Association (AFRAA).