In a ceremony held in Toulouse, France on November 5, 2024, Ethiopian Airlines, the largest airline in Africa took delivery of the A350-1000 aircraft from Airbus.
The Airbus A350-1000 which is the first in Africa is set to enhance Ethiopian Airlines premium service on key destinations including Washington D.C., London, Paris and Frankfurt. This significant milestone was celebrated in a grand ceremony attended by government officials, ambassadors, diplomats, and esteemed representatives from Airbus and Thales.
The aircraft landed at Addis Ababa Bole International Airport, basking in a warm welcome marked by a spectacular water cannon salute. 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 Mr. Mesfin Tasew expressed, “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 inflight entertainment system and the HBC+ connectivity system, providing travelers with luxurious amenities, spacious seating, large screens, and a unique landscape camera.
With direct aisle access for all business class seats, convenience is prioritized. The A350-1000 boasts a revolutionary design with innovative aerodynamics and a carbon-fiber 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.
