Zehabesha News DeskMarch 2026 Addis Ababa / Dublin — Global aircraft leasing giant AerCap has announced the placement of Africa’s first converted Boeing 777-300ERSF freighter aircraft with Ethiopian Airlines, marking a significant milestone in the continent’s cargo aviation sector.
The Boeing 777-300ERSF (Special Freighter), converted from passenger aircraft into dedicated cargo carriers, will be operated by Ethiopian Airlines under lease from AerCap.
This marks the first deployment of the 777-300ERSF freighter in Africa, reinforcing Ethiopian Airlines’ position as a leading cargo operator on the continent.
The conversion program is carried out by Israel Aerospace Industries, one of the world’s key players in passenger-to-freighter (P2F) aircraft conversions.
Expanding Ethiopian Airlines’ Cargo Dominance Ethiopian Airlines has steadily built one of Africa’s largest and most modern cargo networks.
The addition of the 777-300ERSF is expected to significantly boost its long-haul freight capacity.
The aircraft offers: Higher payload capability compared to older freighters Long-range operations, ideal for intercontinental cargo routes Improved fuel efficiency, reducing operational costs This move aligns with Ethiopian Airlines’ broader strategy of expanding its cargo division, which became especially critical during and after the COVID-19 pandemic when global air freight demand surged.
Strategic Importance for....
