CDB Aviation leases two 737 MAX 8 aircraft to Africa’s largest airline Ethiopian Airlines

November 17 2025 Print This Article

CDB Aviation, a wholly owned Irish subsidiary of China Development Bank Financial Leasing Co., Ltd., announced the execution of lease agreements for two Boeing 737 MAX 8 aircraft with Africa’s largest airline, Ethiopian Airlines.

“On behalf of CDB Aviation, I am very proud to welcome Ethiopian Airlines to our global customer family, with the lease agreements executed for these two Boeing 737 MAX 8 aircraft to be delivered in 2026,” commented Jie Chen, CDB Aviation’s Chief Executive Officer.

The two MAX aircraft are scheduled to be delivered in the first half of 2026 and will support the airline’s fleet growth strategy targeted to equip the carrier with the most modern and fuel-efficient aircraft.

“The African aviation market is primed for a rapid surge in growth, with a population that increasingly wants to fly, for business and pleasure. With continued investments fueling the growth of its fleet, Ethiopian is well positioned to increase connectivity across the continent, making travel more accessible,” added Chen.