July 04, 2018: Ethiopian Airlines has taken delivery of its first of 30 Boeing 737 MAX jets.

The flag carrier of Ethiopia has long operated the efficient and reliable Boeing 737 airplane. With the MAX, Ethiopian will be able to achieve a double-digit improvement in fuel efficiency and provide passengers with a more comfortable experience.

The 737 MAX is the fastest-selling airplane in Boeing history, accumulating more than 4,500 orders to date from 99 customers worldwide.

The 737 MAX families incorporates the latest technology CFM International LEAP-1B engines, Advanced Technology winglets, the Boeing Sky Interior, large flight deck displays, and other improvements to deliver the highest efficiency, reliability and passenger comfort in the single-aisle market.

In Ethiopian's configuration, its 737 MAX 8 will seat 160 passengers.

"Ethiopian Airlines continues to fly at the forefront of Africa's commercial aviation industry by operating the most advanced airplanes," said Marty Bentrott, Boeing Sales vice president for Middle East, Turkey, Russia, Central Asia & Africa.

With this delivery, Ethiopian's fleet of Boeing airplanes grows to 73 jets, including the 787 Dreamliner, 777, 737 MAX, and the 757 and 767.

Ethiopian Airlines Group CEO Tewolde GebreMariam, said, “It is an immense honor for all of us at Ethiopian to reach this milestone a few days after we colorfully marked our 100 fleet milestone and the latest acquisition is an affirmation of our continuing pioneering role in African aviation and the successful implementation of our fast, profitable and sustainable growth plan, Vision 2025. Today, We are glad to include the B737 MAX 8, the latest in Boeing’s single-aisle series, in our young and modern fleet family with an average age of less than 5 years.

“Ethiopian Airlines continues to fly at the forefront of Africa’s commercial aviation industry by operating the most advanced airplanes,” said Marty Bentrott, Boeing, sales vice president for Middle East, Turkey, Russia, Central Asia & Africa.