Ethiopian Airlines is exploring a potentially significant order for regional jets, with Airbus, Boeing, and Embraer vying for the lucrative deal. Mesfin Tasew Bekele, the CEO of Ethiopian Airlines, recently highlighted this exciting prospect at the International Air Transport Association's (IATA) Annual General Meeting. Reports from Pilotcenter.net News reveal that the airline is considering acquiring roughly 20 regional or small jets.

Bekele is currently evaluating three models for the prospective order: the Embraer E2, Airbus A220, and the upcoming Boeing 737 MAX 7. The specific number of aircraft to be ordered will depend on the type selected. However, challenges like aircraft delivery delays and issues with engine maintenance have been faced by Ethiopian Airlines, leading to operational disruptions, including the grounding of some 787 Dreamliners and turboprops.

Discussing the setbacks, Bekele expressed concerns to Reuters, noting the varying delays in aircraft deliveries from both Boeing and Airbus. Despite these hurdles, the airline has substantial orders in the pipeline, including Boeing 787-9 Dreamliners, 777-9s, and Airbus A350-900s.

In an exciting development, Ethiopian Airlines recently inaugurated a new passenger service to Sharjah in the United Arab Emirates (UAE), with four weekly flights connecting to this vibrant emirate. Bekele shared his enthusiasm about this new route, underscoring the significance of enhancing connections between UAE and Africa. He stated, "We are truly delighted to connect our passengers to an additional getaway in the UAE with our new flights to Sharjah. We have been fostering strong links between the UAE and Africa for nearly five decades now, and the new service will further strengthen investment, tourism, and diplomatic ties between the two regions."

The current Ethiopian Airlines fleet is diverse, with Boeing 737s, 777s, 787s, Airbus A350-900s, A350-1000s, and De Havilland Q400 aircraft soaring through the skies. Stay tuned for more updates on Ethiopian Airlines' strategic endeavors and future growth opportunities.