• Ethiopian Airlines orders six more Airbus A350-900s to expand long-haul fleet
  

• New jets support Vision 2035 goal of 250+ aircraft and lower emissions
  

• A350’s efficiency, cabin features boost competitiveness on global routes
  

Ethiopian Airlines has placed a firm order for six Airbus A350-900s, the carrier confirmed at the recent Dubai Airshow, as it continues to expand its long-haul fleet.

The order reinforces the airline’s position as Africa’s leading customer for the model. Ethiopian ordered 11 A350-900s in 2023, some of which are already in service.

The A350-900 delivers about 25% lower fuel burn and CO₂ emissions compared with older long-haul models. Analysts say this efficiency gives Ethiopian a significant competitive advantage on intercontinental routes, where margins depend heavily on operating costs and fuel performance.

Commercially, the aircraft’s Airspace cabin features wider seats, better noise insulation, and next-generation in-flight entertainment systems, elements seen as important as the airline competes with carriers from the Gulf, Europe, and the rest of Africa.

The fleet expansion also supports the airline’s “Vision 2035” plan, which aims to grow its fleet to more than 250 aircraft. The goal is to increase capacity, reduce costs, and strengthen Addis Ababa’s role as a major African aviation hub with broader global reach.

Henoc Dossa