AWAS announced today that it has delivered one new 787-8 Dreamliner aircraft to the flag carrier of Ethiopia, Ethiopian Airlines. As part of a fleet upgrade solution for its long-time customer, AWAS has agreed to purchase three new 787-8 passenger aircraft from the airline that Ethiopian had previously ordered directly from the manufacturer, and then lease them back to the airline.

Tewolde GebreMariam, Group CEO Ethiopian Airlines remarked on this first successful delivery, “Fleet expansion is among the four pillars of our 15 years strategic roadmap dubbed Vision 2025 , and hence, we are continually modernizing our fleet capability to suffice our ever expanding network and for the extra comfort and satisfaction of our customers. AWAS has once again worked with us to achieve this first delivery. They have listened to our needs, and helped to craft this customized solution to assist with our fleet modernization and expansion plans. These three additional Dreamliners, which have already proven themselves in our fleet with their unmatched combination of operational flexibility, efficiency, and passenger comfort, will allow Ethiopian to achieve our Vision 2025 goal, to be the leading Aviation Group in Africa and a leading global airline.”

Marlin Dailey, Chief Commercial Officer AWAS commented, “AWAS is very pleased to expand our relationship with Ethiopian Airlines, one that spans two decades, with this first delivery of three planned 787-8 Dreamliners. Ethiopian has been a strong model and industry example in demonstrating the potential of this aircraft; utilizing its extraordinary range and efficiency to profitably service new city pairs as well as drive optimisation within their existing network.”