Ethiopian Airlines Group, the national carrier of Ethiopia, has entered into a memorandum of understanding (MoU) to acquire an additional eleven Airbus A350-900s, along with six purchase rights, to supplement its current fleet. Ethiopian Airlines has increased its total order book and commitment for the A350 to 33 with the most recent agreement, which includes four A350-1000s.

Ethiopian Airlines, which presently maintains a fleet of 20 A350-900s, will solidify its status as the largest A350 customer in Africa through this commitment.

The MOU was signed in the presence of Mesfin Tasew, the CEO of Ethiopian Airlines Group, and Christian Scherer, the Chief Commercial Officer and Head of International for Airbus, during the Dubai Airshow.

CEO of the Ethiopian Airlines Group, Mesfin Tasew, stated:

We are excited to place this commitment for 11 Airbus A350-900s. As a customer focused airline, we are particularly excited for these 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.

Christian Scherer, Chief Commercial Officer and Head of International at Airbus, remarked:

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 A350 is the long-range leader in the 300-410 seater category and the most advanced and fuel-efficient widebody aircraft in the world. It can operate efficiently on any sector, from short-haul to ultra-long-haul routes up to 9,700 nautical miles. The aircraft’s clean sheet design incorporates cutting-edge technologies, aerodynamics, lightweight materials, and engines of the most recent generation. These components collectively contribute to a 25% improvement in fuel efficiency, operating expenses, and CO₂ emissions, in addition to a 50% reduction in pollution compared to competitor aircraft of previous generations.

The A350 has been awarded more than one thousand commitments from the world’s leading airlines.