Air Canada has recently made a strategic move by leasing two Boeing 767-300 freighters to Ethiopian Airlines Cargo. The first of these aircraft, registered as C-GHXI, is currently undergoing preparations to join the African carrier, with its sister aircraft, registered as C-GXHM, soon to follow suit.

These two factory-built 767-300F cargo variants, which had been in storage at Kansas City International Airport since April 2024, are expected to enhance Ethiopian Airlines Cargo's growing fleet significantly. Alongside its existing freighter fleet consisting of four Boeing 737-800Fs, three Boeing 767-300Fs, and 11 Boeing 777Fs, the addition of the two Air Canada freighters will bring Ethiopian's total dedicated freighter count to 20 planes.

Ethiopian Airlines Cargo, well known for its extensive air cargo network across Africa and beyond, serves as a crucial link connecting the continent to global markets in Asia, Europe, and the Americas. The decision to lease these aircraft reflects both the carrier's commitment to expansion and its response to the evolving demands of the industry.

The story behind these leased freighters began when Air Canada initially acquired them in June 2022 to meet the surging demand in the cargo sector post-COVID-19. However, as market conditions shifted, the aircraft were temporarily retired in April 2024. Now, with Ethiopian Airlines, they have found a new home and purpose in Addis Ababa.

Meanwhile, as Air Canada reevaluates its Boeing 767 fleet, the airline has announced plans to reintroduce two retired Boeing 767-300ERs into passenger service starting in February 2025. These aircraft, known by their registrations C-FOCA and C-GLCA, have been stored at Hamilton International Airport and are part of the carrier's strategy to optimize its fleet amidst ongoing delivery delays of new Boeing 787s.

Historically a major operator of Boeing widebodies, Air Canada's decision to bring back these passenger 767s signifies a shift in the airline's operational approach. The reintroduction of these aircraft on specific routes from Toronto-Pearson International Airport is set to offer passengers the familiar configuration of 24 lie-flat business class seats and 187 economy seats.

As the aviation industry continues to adapt to changing global conditions, collaborations and fleet optimizations like these reflect the resilience and flexibility of airlines like Air Canada and Ethiopian Airlines in navigating the dynamic landscape of air travel.