In a landmark achievement for African aviation, Ethiopian Airlines has officially received Africa’s very first Airbus A350-1000 aircraft. The handover ceremony was held at Airbus headquarters in Toulouse, France, marking a milestone moment for both Ethiopian Airlines and the African aviation industry. This brand-new aircraft is scheduled to arrive at Addis Ababa Bole International Airport today, bringing with it a new standard of advanced air travel to the continent.
This state-of-the-art aircraft, known as “Ethiopia, Land of Origins,” not only pays homage to Ethiopia’s rich cultural heritage but also symbolizes the airline’s commitment to connecting Africa with the world through modern, efficient travel. As the largest variant in the Airbus A350 family, the A350-1000 boasts a seating capacity of 400 passengers and includes luxurious features such as wider seats, high ceilings, and customizable ambient lighting for an unparalleled passenger experience. The quiet cabin and advanced in-flight entertainment systems ensure travelers a relaxing, engaging journey, particularly on long-haul flights.
CEO Mesfin Tasew expressed his excitement about the addition, saying, “This latest addition to our fleet represents our commitment to providing our customers with the highest levels of comfort and innovation.” Ethiopian Airlines, already renowned for its award-winning service, now becomes the first African airline to operate this flagship aircraft, reinforcing its position as a global leader in aviation.
The Airbus A350-1000 is celebrated not only for its comfort but also for its technological advancements and fuel efficiency. With Rolls-Royce Trent XWB engines, it reduces fuel consumption and CO₂ emissions by up to 25% compared to previous-generation models, supporting Ethiopian Airlines’ commitment to sustainable operations. With a range of 8,700 nautical miles, the aircraft is ideally suited to Ethiopian Airlines’ extensive network, enabling it to connect distant destinations non-stop.
The acquisition of the A350-1000 aligns with Ethiopian Airlines’ Vision 2035 strategy, which aims to transport 67 million passengers annually and generate $25 billion in revenue. Ethiopian Airlines now joins an elite group of global carriers that operate the A350-1000, underscoring its dedication to delivering world-class service and elevating African aviation on the global stage.
Stay tuned as Ethiopian Airlines embarks on this new chapter, combining innovation with luxury and expanding its role as a key player in connecting Ethiopia—and Africa—to the world with style and sophistication.
