Wedoany.com Report-Nov. 24, Ethiopian Airlines has signed a firm order for six additional Airbus A350-900 aircraft, reinforcing its position as the largest A350 operator in Africa. The agreement was formalised at the Dubai Airshow by Mesfin Tasew, Group CEO of Ethiopian Airlines, and Benoît de Saint-Exupéry, Executive Vice President Sales, Commercial Aircraft at Airbus.

Mesfin Tasew stated: “We are delighted to expand our Airbus fleet size with this order and strengthen our partnership with Airbus. As the continent’s leading airline and the largest operator of the A350, this milestone order further supports our vision to grow sustainably while providing a world-class travel experience to our passengers and strengthening our position as the aviation leader in Africa.”

Benoît de Saint-Exupéry responded: “We are proud to further deepen our partnership with Ethiopian Airlines, a long-standing Airbus customer and a benchmark for aviation excellence in Africa. The A350’s state-of-the-art technology, efficiency and versatility will bring even greater value to Ethiopian’s operations.”

The A350-900 is a modern widebody aircraft capable of non-stop flights up to 9,700 nautical miles (18,000 kilometres). It incorporates advanced aerodynamics, latest-generation Rolls-Royce engines, and extensive use of lightweight composite materials, resulting in 25 per cent lower fuel consumption, operating costs, and CO₂ emissions compared with previous-generation aircraft of similar size.

The A350 Airspace cabin provides enhanced passenger comfort through wider seats, larger windows, improved air quality, adjustable lighting, and reduced cabin noise. Like all current Airbus aircraft, the A350 is certified to operate with up to 50 per cent Sustainable Aviation Fuel (SAF), with Airbus targeting full compatibility with 100 per cent SAF by 2030.

As of the end of October 2025, the A350 Family has secured more than 1,400 firm orders from 64 customers worldwide, confirming its strong market acceptance among leading airlines.

This latest order extends Ethiopian Airlines’ long-standing relationship with Airbus and supports the carrier’s continued fleet modernisation and network expansion across Africa and internationally. The additional A350-900s will enhance operational efficiency on the airline’s growing long-haul routes while maintaining high standards of passenger experience and environmental performance.