Ethiopian Airlines has signed an MoU with Airbus for the acquisition of 11 further Airbus A350-900s. With the latest agreement, the carriers A350 orderbook and commitments grows to 33, including four A350-1000s.
On Wednesday (November 15, 2023), from the 2023 Dubai Airshow, Airbus announced that Ethiopian Airlines has signed a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) committing the acquisition of a further 11 Airbus A350-900s. The latest agreement brings the carrier’s A350 orderbook and commitments to 33 aircraft, including four A350-1000s. Currently, Ethiopian Airlines operates a fleet of 20 A350-900s, and with this commitment, solidifies their position as Africa’s largest A350 customer.
Speaking at the signing ceremony in Dubai on Wednesday, Ethiopian Airlines Group’s CEO, Mr. Mesfin Tasew, said,
“We are excited to place this commitment for 11 Airbus A350-900s. As a customer focused airline, we are particularly excited for this fleet as it offers extra comfort to passengers with its features like the quietest cabin in its class and ambient lighting. We are keen to expand our fleet size, acquiring the latest technology aircraft to offer a convenient and memorable onboard experience to our esteemed passengers.”
Also commenting on Ethiopian Airlines’ further A350 commitment, Airbus’ Chief Commercial Officer and Head of International, Christian Scherer, said,
“Ethiopian Airlines is a great example of how to leverage the exceptional values of the A350 for long-haul travel, playing on the benefits of Ethiopia’s unique geographical position that offers the fastest connections between China and Latin America. We are delighted to further strengthen Ethiopian Airlines fleet, and through this, continue the great relationship we have built up together.”
The Airbus A350 is the world’s most efficient widebody aircraft and the long range leader in the 300-410 seat category. The versatile aircraft can efficiently fly in any market, from short to ultra-long-haul routes, and offers a range of up to 9,700 nautical miles. With a clean sheet design that includes state-of-the-art technologies, aerodynamics, lightweight materials and the latest generation engines, the aircraft delivers a 25 percent reduction in fuel use, operating costs, and CO2 emissions, as well as a 50 percent smaller noise footprint, compared to previous generation competitor aircraft. To date, the Airbus A350 has won over 1,000 orders from leading carriers worldwide.
Source: Airbus