Ethiopian Airlines has signed a memorandum of understanding with Boeing for 10 787s, making it the first African carrier to commit to the new twinjet. The $1.3 billion deal includes five firm orders and purchase rights for five more. The airline, which operates an all-Boeing jet fleet, says the fact that the 787-8 is available two years earlier (2008) than the rival Airbus A350 was a crucial factor in its selection. Ethiopian will configure its 787s in a two-class configuration accommodating between 254 to 320 passengers. The carrier says it has not yet made an engine selection.
Source: Flight International
