Ethiopian Airlines, Africa’s largest Airbus operator, has officially taken delivery of its first A350-1000 aircraft from Airbus in Toulouse, France. This marks a significant milestone for the airline, as the A350-1000 is the first of its kind to be operated by an African-based carrier. The new aircraft will enhance Ethiopian Airlines’ premium services on key international routes, including Washington D.C., London, Paris, and Frankfurt.
A Modern Addition to the Fleet
The A350-1000 is the latest addition to Ethiopian Airlines’ growing fleet. The airline currently operates a total of 21 A350 Family aircraft, including the A350-900 model. With the delivery of the A350-1000, Ethiopian Airlines plans to expand its fleet with a total of 14 more A350 aircraft over the coming years. This includes 11 A350-900s and three additional A350-1000s.
The new aircraft shares operational commonality with the A350-900, simplifying the integration process by allowing for shared pilots and mechanics, as well as streamlined training and maintenance procedures. This operational efficiency will allow Ethiopian Airlines to provide a more consistent and high-quality experience for passengers.
Enhanced Passenger Experience
With a seating capacity of 395, the A350-1000 will increase Ethiopian Airlines’ passenger capacity while also offering a superior travel experience. The aircraft features the airline’s largest business class cabin and will introduce Airbus’ new HBCplus satcom connectivity solution. This new technology will provide seamless, high-speed gate-to-gate connectivity for passengers throughout their journey.
The A350: The Future of Air Travel
The Airbus A350 is renowned as the world’s most modern and efficient widebody aircraft. The A350-1000, with its advanced aerodynamics and state-of-the-art technologies, is designed for long-range travel and offers unmatched efficiency and comfort. The aircraft’s unique Airspace cabin is the quietest of any twin-aisle aircraft, with a 50% reduction in noise compared to previous generation planes.
Thanks to its new-generation engines and lightweight materials, the A350-1000 is also the most fuel-efficient large widebody aircraft in its class. The A350 is capable of operating with up to 50% Sustainable Aviation Fuel (SAF) today, and Airbus aims for the aircraft to be 100% SAF-capable by 2030.
Growing Fleet and Infrastructure
The delivery of the A350-1000 is part of Ethiopian Airlines’ larger expansion strategy. By the end of September 2024, Airbus had received orders for 1,340 A350 aircraft from 60 customers worldwide, making it one of the most successful widebody aircraft ever produced.
In addition to expanding its fleet, Ethiopia’s Prime Minister, Abiy Ahmed, recently announced that the country is moving forward with the construction of a mega airport. The new facility is expected to have the capacity to serve 130 million passengers annually, more than four times the capacity of the current Bole International Airport. Prime Minister Abiy also highlighted that Ethiopian Airlines has ordered 124 new modern aircraft, continuing its ambitious growth trajectory in both domestic and international markets.
