Ethiopian Airlines Debuts New A350-1000 on Lagos Route

Today, Africa's largest carrier, Ethiopian Airlines made another aviation history as it debuted its brand-new Airbus A350-1000 on its Addis Ababa-Lagos route. This was the aircraft's first commercial flight following its delivery.

The aircraft, with registration ET-BAW, landed at the Murtala Muhammed International Airport Lagos at exactly 12:15pm with a total of 272 passengers onboard. The flight, which received a spectacular water cannon salute, was commanded by Captain Sisay Kebede.

Speaking during the welcome ceremony at the airport, the General Manager of Ethiopian Airlines Nigeria, Mr Wondwossen Beyene, said that the event marked a significant milestone in African aviation. He also described the A350-1000 as a state-of-the-art aircraft.

"It is my pleasure to welcome you all to this historic occasion, as we celebrate the arrival of Ethiopian Airlines' state-of-the-art A350-1000 fleet to Lagos, Nigeria. This marks a significant milestone in African aviation, as Ethiopian Airlines becomes the first airline on the continent to introduce this cutting-edge aircraft."

"The flight we are receiving today is the first commercial flight of the Aircraft underscoring the commitment of Ethiopian Airlines to the Nigerian market." he added.

Thanking the Ethiopian Airlines' team, the Federal Government of Nigeria, the Nigerian Civil Aviation Authority, and the Lagos State Government for their unwavering support, Beyene said that the aircraft will not only elevate the travel experience for passengers but also strengthen trade and economic ties between Africa and the rest of the world.

The aircraft also provides increased cargo capacity, facilitating seamless transportation of goods and services. According to Beyene, Ethiopian Airlines will take delivery of three more Airbus A350-1000s in a few months time.

The A350-1000 boasts a revolutionary design with innovative aerodynamics and a carbon-fiber fuselage, powered by the fuel-efficient Rolls-Royce Trent XWB engines, ensuring a quieter, smoother journey for long-haul travel. It is a game-changer in the aviation industry, boasting unparalleled comfort, efficiency, and technological advancements.

The aircraft is the first aircraft in Ethiopian Airlines fleet to feature Thales's AVANT Up inflight entertainment system and the HBC+ connectivity system, providing travelers with luxurious amenities, High Speed internet connection, large screens, unique landscape camera and spacious seating with direct aisle access for all business class seats.

The A350’s unique Airspace cabin is the quietest of any twin-aisle in the sky featuring a 50% noise footprint reduction versus the previous generation aircraft. It offers passengers and crews the latest modern in-flight products for a comfortable flying experience. The aircraft’s new generation engines and use of lightweight materials make it the most fuel efficient large wide-body aircraft.

As with all Airbus aircraft, the A350 aircraft is already able to operate with up to 50% Sustainable Aviation Fuel (SAF). Airbus is targeting to have its aircraft up to 100% SAF capable by 2030.

By the end of September 2024, 1,340 A350s had been ordered by 60 customers worldwide, making it one of the most successful wide-body aircraft ever.

It'll be recalled that Ethiopian Airlines officially took delivery of the first Airbus A350-1000 at a ceremony in Toulouse, France on Monday, 4 November, 2024. The aircraft is configured with a total of 395 seats, including 46 seats in Business Class and 349 in Economy Class.