An interview on the American NBC News network with Ethiopian Airlines CEO Tewolde GebreMariam revealed that the airline may never operate the Boeing 737 MAX again. GebreMariam stated: “I cannot fully say that the airplane will fly back with Ethiopian Airlines. At present it is uncertain when the MAX series will fly again, although several airlines are counting on the FAA grounding being lifted by the end of the summer. If Ethiopian Airlines decide to abandon the 737 MAX, the options available to replace the type within the fleet are:737-800: Similar in size and no additional pilot training required, although the type is less fuel efficient. A mixed fleet if short-haul aircraft for the airline would need additional investment in crew training.

Source: Ethiopian News May 16, 2019 09:22 UTC