Flag carrier Ethiopian Airlines, Africa's largest and fastest-growing commercial airline, has taken delivery of the first of 30 Boeing 737 MAX jets.

With the MAX, Ethiopian will be able to achieve a double-digit improvement in fuel efficiency and provide passengers with a more comfortable experience, Boeing said in a statement.  

"We are glad to include the Boeing 737 MAX 8, the latest in Boeing's single-aisle series, in our young and modern fleet of over 100 aircraft with an average age of less than five years," said Ethiopian Airlines Group CEO Tewolde GebreMariam.

"The Boeing 737 MAX 8 features the new Boeing sky interior, highlighted by modern sculpted sidewalls and window reveals, LED lighting that enhance the sense of spaciousness ultimately boosting our customers' experience. Since it is more fuel efficient than the current 737-NG, it has less carbon emission to the environment.

“As a customer-centric airline with a high adaptability to emerging technologies, Ethiopian has been pioneering latest-technology aircraft into Africa throughout its 72-year history. In line with the airline's growth targets under Vision 2025, we will keep on investing in further expansion of our fleet in acquiring the latest aircraft the industry has to offer,” he added.

The 737 MAX is the fastest-selling airplane in Boeing history, accumulating more than 4,500 orders to date from 99 customers worldwide.

The 737 MAX families incorporates the latest technology CFM International LEAP-1B engines, Advanced Technology winglets, the Boeing Sky Interior, large flight deck displays, and other improvements to deliver the highest efficiency, reliability and passenger comfort in the single-aisle market.

In Ethiopian's configuration, its 737 MAX 8 will seat 160 passengers.

"Ethiopian Airlines continues to fly at the forefront of Africa's commercial aviation industry by operating the most advanced airplanes," said Marty Bentrott, Boeing Sales vice president for Middle East, Turkey, Russia, Central Asia & Africa.

"We are honoured by Ethiopian's continuing confidence in Boeing airplanes and we look forward to growing our five-decade long partnership."

With this delivery, Ethiopian's fleet of Boeing airplanes grows to 73 jets, including the 787 Dreamliner, 777, 737 MAX, and the 757 and 767. – TradeArabia News Service