Ethiopia and Senegal have jointly placed a multi-billion-dollar order for 20 Boeing 737 MAX aircraft, marking one of Africa’s largest commercial aviation purchases this year. The deal was first reported by Reuters, which said both governments approved the acquisition as part of broader efforts to modernise national fleets and expand regional connectivity.
Officials familiar with the agreement told Bloomberg that the order includes purchase commitments and optional expansions, with deliveries expected to begin in stages over the next several years. Aviation authorities in both countries described the investment as essential for improving route efficiency and lowering long-term operating costs.
“This fleet upgrade is a strategic step in strengthening our competitive position across Africa and beyond,” an Ethiopian transport ministry official said in comments cited by Financial Times. Senegalese aviation regulators also highlighted the 737 MAX’s fuel-saving capabilities, noting that the aircraft will support the country’s push to scale up destinations across West Africa.
Industry analysts told Business Insider Africa that the joint move signals growing confidence in aircraft demand across the continent, particularly as several African carriers seek to increase capacity in response to rising passenger traffic.
The purchase represents renewed momentum in Africa’s aviation sector, which has been recovering steadily as governments invest in infrastructure and airlines rebuild their networks.
