Ethiopian First Airbus A350-1000 To Be Delivered Soon

Ethiopian Airlines is gearing up to take delivery of its first and Africa’s first A350-1000 as part of continued ambitions to grow as a company and renew its fleet.

Named ‘Ethiopia Land of Origins, ‘ the airline expects the aircraft to be delivered in November of 2024 following several delays due to supply chain-related difficulties and internal issues at Airbus.

These delays are hardly a surprise, as something similar is happening with every airline worldwide. For example, Malaysia Airlines received a delivery delay for its highly anticipated first A330neo.

For Ethiopian Airlines, the aircraft being the first of its kind in Africa is a landmark moment. It highlights the region’s long-term growth ambitions, with much-untapped potential.

Ethiopian Airlines will, therefore, celebrate this as the first A350-1000 by adding a decal, highlighted at the front of the aircraft to commemorate what this means for Africa.

Inside The A350-1000

The Airbus A350-1000 will be equipped with all the latest technologies, such as exclusive upper-class seating. Each seat features a direct aisle and is complemented by all-new ambient lighting to create a more relaxing flying experience.

Rich entertainment will be possible thanks to a real-time landscape view, a 17.3-inch 4K QLED HDR IFE screen, and free high-speed Wi-Fi for customers.

As technologies continue to develop, the airline is adding Bluetooth connectivity options for customers across its aircraft. These options will connect personal headphone devices to the inflight entertainment screen. USB-A and USB-C charging will also be available.

Ethiopian Airlines also prioritises having enough storage for customers, with convenient spots added for belongings in upper-class seating. Including an area for shoes should they need to come off at any stage.

Towards the back of the aircraft, economy is described as a space where “comfort meets convenience.” Ample legroom is present, and a 3-3-3 configuration and entertainment screens, 11.6 inches and 4 K screens are present.

The A350-1000 Is A Dream

Not just for Ethiopian Airlines but for the people of Africa, the addition of the A350-1000 is considered a dream thanks to all the new network options that will be possible.

Focusing on the international market, this type of travel will enable higher-capacity travel to key locations that have built up demand and will continue growing.

The A350-1000 is among the few true high-capacity aircraft available for airlines as manufacturers have moved away from ultra-high-capacity jets such as the A380.