By Juliet ETEFE ([email protected])
Ethiopian Airlines has expanded its market offering by introducing Africa’s first Airbus A350-1000, which touched down at Ghana’s Kotoka International Airport on November 8.
Operated by the airline, this latest addition signals its ongoing commitment to delivering elevated travel experiences and premium service to Ghanaian and African travellers.
The move also underscores the airline’s dedication to bringing cutting-edge aviation technology to the continent and elevating the passenger experience across its network.
The A350-1000 is the first to be delivered to Africa, and Ethiopian Airlines is the only airline operating it now. It has a seating capacity of 46 seats in business class, and 395 economy seats.
Captain Firomssa Chala Gossa, who piloted the aircraft to Ghana around 11:45 am on Friday, detailed the unique features of the Airbus A350-1000 to the media.
“This model is top of the line, the latest from Airbus, and just three days old. We are paying more attention to passenger satisfaction with additional premium seating and an upgraded entertainment system,” he said.
The aircraft also introduces advanced features to enhance the passenger experience, including upgraded in-flight entertainment, reliable Wi-Fi connectivity and an advanced lighting system.
The captain added that the environmental benefits are equally noteworthy, with the A350-1000 achieving 25 percent greater fuel efficiency compared to previous models, significantly reducing its carbon footprint.
“This aircraft is not only fuel-efficient but also very quiet, contributing both economically and environmentally,” he explained.
Ethiopian Airlines’ choice of Accra as one of the initial destinations highlights the airline’s focus on connecting Africa to global markets.
“Africa is growing in tourism and trade, and strong air connectivity is essential,” Captain Fiorumsa noted.
Beyond passenger capacity, the A350-1000 offers increased cargo space, accommodating up to 40 tonnes more than the A350-900 model. This added capacity boosts Africa’s export capabilities, providing enhanced opportunities for trade and economic growth.
“Africa is our heart, and Accra is a gateway for trade, exports and tourism,” he said, emphasising the strategic role of the new aircraft in linking Africa to 133 destinations worldwide.
Currently, Ethiopian Airlines is operating a total of 155 aircraft, including 21 A350-900, and it has 72 aircraft on its order book – including Boeing’s latest B777X.
The A350-1000 will increase the East African carrier’s capacity and it will be an addition to its modern wide-body fleet. The airline will benefit from a flexible, high-value family, leveraging Airbus’ unprecedented level of commonality and same-type rating.
The Airbus A350’s clean-sheet design features state-of-the-art aerodynamics, a carbon-fibre fuselage, and wings, plus the most fuel-efficient Rolls-Royce Trent XWB engines. These latest technologies translate into unrivalled levels of operational efficiency and sustainability for Ethiopian Airlines, with a 25 percent reduction in fuel-burn and CO2 emissions compared to previous generation twin-aisle aircraft.
