ET launches Africa’s first Airbus A350-1000

The largest airline in Africa, Ethiopian Airlines, has announced the arrival of Africa’s first Airbus A350-1000.

The aircraft landed at Addis Ababa Bole International Airport, basking in a warm welcome marked by a spectacular water cannon salute.

This significant milestone was celebrated in a grand ceremony attended by government officials, ambassadors, diplomats, and esteemed representatives from Airbus and Thales.

Accompanying this momentous delivery was a payload of medical supplies valued at over 100,000 euros, generously donated to the Ethiopian Airlines Foundation by Aviation Sans Frontières in collaboration with Airbus.

Upon its arrival from Toulouse, France, the celebrations continued with a demonstration flight, inviting distinguished guests to experience the aircraft’s capabilities while enjoying stunning views of the Grand Ethiopian Renaissance Dam.

Commenting on this historic occasion, Ethiopian Airlines Group CEO, Mesfin Tasew, said: “We are thrilled to welcome the Airbus A350-1000 to our fleet, solidifying our position as leaders in aviation technology. This aircraft embodies cutting-edge advancements, offering superior passenger comfort, enhanced fuel efficiency, and reduced environmental impact. Together, we are pioneering a sustainable future for aviation in Africa.”

This state-of-the-art aircraft is the first to feature Thales’s AVANT Up in-flight entertainment system and the HBC+ connectivity system, providing travellers with luxurious amenities, spacious seating, large screens, and a unique landscape camera.

Convenience is prioritised with direct aisle access for all business class seats. The A350-1000 boasts a revolutionary design with innovative aerodynamics and a carbon-fibre fuselage, powered by the fuel-efficient Rolls-Royce Trent XWB engines, ensuring a quieter, smoother journey for long-haul travel.

This launch marks a transformative moment for Ethiopian Airlines and sets new standards for the African aviation sector, aligning with the airline’s ambitious Vision 2035 plan. Ethiopian Airlines is excited to welcome three additional A350-1000 aircraft in the upcoming months, further enhancing its modern fleet and commitment to passenger excellence.

With the addition of the A350-1000, Ethiopian Airlines reaffirms its commitment to innovation, sustainability, and customer satisfaction, charting a new course for African aviation excellence.