Ethiopian Airlines has signed a memorandum of understanding (MoU) for 11 additional Airbus A350-900s at the Dubai Airshow on November 15, 2023.
The commitment to the additional aircraft takes the Ethiopian flag carrier’s total order of A350 to 33, including four A350-1000s.
Ethiopian Airlines currently operates a fleet of 20 A350-900s and the MoU will make the airline Africa’s biggest A350 customer.
“We are excited to place this commitment for 11 Airbus A350-900s. As a customer focused airline, we are particularly excited for this 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,” Ethiopian Airlines Group CEO Mesfin Tasew said in a press statement.
Christian Scherer, Airbus Chief Commercial Officer and Head of International, said: “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 MoU was signed the day after Ethiopian announced that it would be purchasing up to 67 new Boeing aircraft.