New A350 & A220 Order Soon
Why It Matters
The deal would accelerate Ethiopian’s rise as a global carrier, boost Airbus’s foothold in Africa, and reshape route economics with more efficient aircraft for long‑haul and regional services.
Key Takeaways
- •Ethiopian eyes six additional A350s for long‑haul expansion.
- •Potential order includes 20 A220s targeting intra‑African routes.
- •A220s offer fuel‑efficient capacity for 100‑150 seat market.
- •Fleet goal: 350 aircraft by 2040, supporting Vision 2035.
- •New jets aim to bypass Middle‑East hubs and boost global reach.
Summary
Ethiopian Airlines is reportedly in early discussions with Airbus about a mixed order of six additional A350 wide‑body jets and up to 20 A220 single‑aisle aircraft. The deal would complement the carrier’s ongoing fleet renewal and support its ambitious growth plan outlined in Vision 2035.
The A350s would extend Ethiopian’s long‑haul network, enabling direct services that bypass traditional Middle‑East hubs, while the A220s target the 100‑150 seat segment that feeds intra‑African routes. The airline has pledged to operate a 350‑aircraft fleet by 2040, up from just over 100 today, and sees the new jets as essential to meet that target.
CEO Tewolde Gebremariam has repeatedly emphasized the need for fuel‑efficient, lower‑cost aircraft to sustain thin‑margin regional flights. The A220’s recent record‑breaking orders and upcoming 300‑seat variant illustrate Airbus’s focus on profitability, and Ethiopian plans to replace aging 737NGs with the A220 to improve range and operating economics.
Securing the order would deepen Airbus’s presence in Africa, give Ethiopian a competitive edge in both long‑haul and regional markets, and move the carrier closer to its goal of joining the world’s top‑20 airlines. The expanded fleet also positions the airline to launch new routes, such as a projected 2028 service to Australia, while reducing reliance on third‑party hubs.
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