Ethiopian Airlines Makes History with Arrival of Africa’s First Airbus A350-1000
Ethiopian Airlines, Africa’s largest carrier, welcomed the continent’s first Airbus A350-1000 at Addis Ababa Bole International Airport.
The arrival, marked by an impressive water cannon salute, was celebrated in a grand ceremony attended by high-ranking government officials, ambassadors, diplomats, and distinguished representatives from Airbus and Thales.
This landmark addition to the Ethiopian Airlines fleet brings more than just advanced technology; it arrives with a charitable payload.
Through a partnership with Aviation Sans Frontières and Airbus, the airline delivered over 100,000 Euros worth of medical supplies, donated to the Ethiopian Airlines Foundation, reflecting the airline’s commitment to community support.
The new A350-1000, which made its journey from Airbus’s headquarters in Toulouse, France, touched down to an enthusiastic reception before embarking on a demonstration flight for invited guests.
Guests were treated to an impressive display of the aircraft’s cutting-edge features while soaring over the stunning Grand Ethiopian Renaissance Dam, a symbol of Ethiopia’s development aspirations.
Ethiopian Airlines Group CEO, Mr. Mesfin Tasew, remarked on the significance of the occasion, stating, “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.”
The A350-1000 is a marvel of engineering, equipped with advanced aerodynamics, a carbon-fibre fuselage, and powered by Rolls-Royce Trent XWB engines, renowned for their fuel efficiency and quiet operation.
Its cabin, the first in Africa to feature Thales’s AVANT Up inflight entertainment system and HBC+ connectivity, offers a luxurious experience with spacious seating, large screens, a unique landscape camera, and direct aisle access for all business class passengers.
This aircraft’s debut aligns with Ethiopian Airlines’ Vision 2035 plan, reinforcing its commitment to innovation and sustainability while setting new benchmarks for passenger satisfaction.
The airline has announced plans to expand its fleet further with three additional A350-1000s in the coming months, underscoring its dedication to elevating the African aviation sector.
The A350-1000 represents not only a technological advancement but a new era for Ethiopian Airlines and African aviation, as the airline continues to set standards for excellence, sustainability, and customer satisfaction across the continent.
