Ethiopian Airlines, the largest Airbus operator in Africa, has received its first A350-1000 aircraft from Airbus in Toulouse, France. This significant addition makes Ethiopian Airlines the first African carrier to operate this model, enhancing its premium-service offerings on major routes such as Washington D.C., London, Paris and Frankfurt.
Currently, Ethiopian Airlines operates a fleet of 21 A350-family aircraft, with 14 more aircraft joining the fleet in the coming years, including 11 A350-900 and three additional A350-1000 aircraft. The A350-1000 shares operational commonality with the A350-900, allowing for streamlined integration of pilots and mechanics, thereby simplifying training and maintenance processes.
With a total capacity of 395 seats, the A350-1000 will not only expand Ethiopian Airlines’ passenger capacity but also elevate the customer experience, featuring the largest business-class cabin in the airline’s fleet. Additionally, the airline plans to introduce Airbus’ new HBCplus satellite communication connectivity solution, ensuring high-speed, seamless connectivity from gate to gate for its passengers.
The A350 is a modern and efficient wide-body aircraft and the long-range leader in the 300-410-seater category. The A350’s clean-sheet design includes state-of-the-art technologies and aerodynamics delivering unmatched standards of efficiency and comfort.
As with all Airbus aircraft, the A350 aircraft is already able to operate with up to 50% sustainable aviation fuel (SAF). Airbus is targeting to have its aircraft up to 100% SAF capable by 2030.
