Ethiopia Chosen as Boeing's African Headquarters over Kenya and South Africa

Boeing has selected Ethiopia as the location for its African headquarters, surpassing Kenya and South Africa. This decision highlights Ethiopia's outstanding aviation safety record, which is among the best in Africa, according to reports

In a strategic move, Boeing and Ethiopian Airlines have signed a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) to enhance airline operations and develop key areas, including industrial development, advanced aviation training, educational partnerships, and leadership development.

This collaboration marks a significant milestone for Ethiopian Airlines, which recently made history as the first African customer for Boeing's 777X aircraft.

Despite facing recent challenges, Ethiopian Airlines remains committed to Boeing. Last year, the airline announced orders for 11 Boeing 787 Dreamliners and 20 Boeing 737 Max airplanes as part of its fleet modernization strategy. In preparation for this new development, Boeing has appointed Henok Shawl, a former Ethiopian Airlines executive with extensive experience in the aviation and telecommunications sectors, to lead its Africa division.

Boeing's decision to establish its African headquarters in Ethiopia reflects the continent's abundant natural resources and burgeoning young workforce, which are poised to drive significant growth in air traffic and airplane demand over the next two decades. Boeing projects that African carriers will require an estimated 1,030 new aircraft over the next 20 years to meet international standards.

Last year, Boeing delivered 528 commercial airplanes and received 1,576 net orders, with an estimated market capitalization of USD 107 billion as of May 2024. The establishment of Boeing's headquarters in Ethiopia is expected to further enhance the region's aviation sector and contribute to its economic growth.