Ethiopian Airlines, Africa’s largest airline, has made history by introducing the continent’s first Airbus A350-1000 to its fleet. This landmark achievement was celebrated with a grand arrival at Addis Ababa Bole International Airport, attended by government officials, ambassadors, diplomats, and representatives from Airbus and Thales.
In addition to the aircraft’s arrival, Ethiopian Airlines received a donation of medical supplies valued at over 100,000 Euros from Aviation Sans Frontières in collaboration with Airbus. The new aircraft’s maiden flight offered distinguished guests a firsthand look at its advanced features and a scenic view of the Grand Ethiopian Renaissance Dam.
The A350-1000, a testament to modern aviation technology, features Thales’s AVANT Up inflight entertainment system and HBC+ connectivity, offering spacious seating, large screens, and unique onboard amenities, including a landscape camera. Business class passengers will enjoy direct aisle access, while the aircraft’s carbon-fibre fuselage and Rolls-Royce Trent XWB engines promise quieter, more efficient journeys.
Ethiopian Airlines Group CEO, Mr. Mesfin Tasew, expressed pride in the acquisition, highlighting how the A350-1000 aligns with the airline’s Vision 2035 plan. This addition reaffirms Ethiopian Airlines’ commitment to innovation, sustainability, and customer satisfaction, marking a significant advancement in African aviation.
Ethiopian Airlines plans to add three more A350-1000 aircraft in the coming months, further cementing its leadership in the African aviation sector.
