Ethiopian Airlines, Africa’s largest and fastest-growing carrier, has received its first Airbus A350-1000, making it the first African airline to operate the widebody aircraft. The delivery took place at Airbus’ facility in Toulouse, France. The A350-1000 will be deployed on key international routes, including to Washington D.C., London, Paris, and Frankfurt, to enhance the airline’s premium services.
The airline, which is also Africa’s largest Airbus operator, plans to add a total of four A350-1000s to its fleet. This aircraft will complement its existing fleet of 21 A350s, which includes the A350-900 model. Ethiopian Airlines will also receive 14 additional A350s in the coming years, including 11 A350-900s and three more A350-1000s. The new A350-1000s share operational commonality with the A350-900s, ensuring smooth integration with pilots and ground crews, as well as simplifying training and maintenance.
Ethiopian Airlines’ A350-1000, with a seating capacity of 395, will feature the airline’s largest business class cabin, enhancing passenger comfort and increasing overall capacity. The aircraft will also offer advanced connectivity, featuring Airbus’ new HBCplus satcom solution for high-speed, gate-to-gate internet service.
The A350 family is known for its fuel efficiency, advanced aerodynamics, and use of lightweight materials, making it one of the most efficient long-haul aircraft in the world. The A350-1000 also boasts the quietest cabin in its class, with noise levels 50% lower than previous-generation aircraft.
Ethiopian Airlines reported a revenue of $7.02 billion for the 2023/2024 fiscal year, which ended on July 7. In May, the airline opened a new domestic terminal in Addis Ababa, built with Chinese support.
Airbus has designed the A350 to be capable of using up to 50% Sustainable Aviation Fuel (SAF), with plans to make all its aircraft SAF-compatible by 2030.
