What Happened
Africa's Largest Airline Expands Fleet with Modern Widebody
Ethiopian Airlines has placed a firm order for six Airbus A350-900 aircraft, becoming the largest A350 customer in Africa. The airline’s CEO, Mesfin Tasew, said the order supports the airline’s vision to grow sustainably while providing a world-class travel experience. The A350 features the latest generation Rolls-Royce engines and offers a 25% advantage in fuel burn, operating costs, and CO2 emissions compared to previous generation competitor aircraft. The aircraft’s advanced cabin products provide a comfortable flying experience. This is Ethiopian Airlines’ second direct commercial order announced at the Dubai Airshow 2025, following an order for 11 Boeing 737 MAX jets. The agreement was signed on November 18, 2025, by Tasew and Benoît de Saint-Exupéry, Airbus EVP Sales of the Commercial Aircraft business. AeroTime is covering the Dubai Airshow 2025 live from the show floor.