Ethiopian Airlines Secures Six Airbus A350-900s at Dubai Airshow 2025

Ethiopian Airlines has made headlines by placing a firm order for six Airbus A350-900 aircraft, officially becoming the largest A350 customer in Africa. This significant move showcases the airline’s commitment to enhancing its fleet.

This announcement comes during the Dubai Airshow 2025, marking the airline’s second direct commercial order. On November 17, 2025, Ethiopian Airlines already made waves by ordering 11 Boeing 737 MAX jets.

The agreement was finalized on November 18, 2025, with Mesfin Tasew, the Group CEO of Ethiopian Airlines, signing alongside Benoît de Saint-Exupéry, Airbus’s Executive Vice President of Sales for Commercial Aircraft.

“As the leading airline on the continent and the primary operator of the A350, this milestone order aligns with our vision of sustainable growth, exceptional service for our passengers, and reinforcing our leadership in African aviation,” stated Tasew.

The A350 is noted as the most advanced widebody aircraft globally, capable of flying up to 9,700 nautical miles (18,000 kilometers) non-stop. It sets new benchmarks for intercontinental travel, according to Airbus.

Equipped with the latest Rolls-Royce engines, the A350 benefits from lightweight materials that offer a 25% improvement in fuel consumption, operating costs, and CO2 emissions compared to older competitor aircraft.

Airbus also highlights that the A350 airspace cabin features the latest in-flight innovations, ensuring a comfortable experience for both passengers and crew.

By the end of October 2025, the A350 Family had garnered over 1,400 orders from 64 customers around the globe, solidifying its place in the aviation market.

As the Dubai Airshow 2025 unfolds, keep an eye out for more developments in the aviation industry. What are your thoughts on Ethiopian Airlines’ latest move?