Commercial Aviation
Ethiopian Airlines Adds Six Airbus A350 Aircraft to Expand Fleet
Ethiopian Airlines orders six additional Airbus A350-900 aircraft to enhance efficiency and sustainability, expanding its fleet to 31.
In a significant move that reinforces its position as a continental leader in aviation, Ethiopian Airlines has announced a firm order for six additional Airbus A350-900 aircraft. The deal, finalized at the bustling Dubai Airshow on November 18, 2025, marks another chapter in the airline’s ambitious growth and fleet modernization strategy. This acquisition not only expands its already substantial A350 fleet but also deepens the long-standing partnership between the African carrier and the European aerospace giant, Airbus.
This strategic purchase is more than just an addition of new planes; it’s a clear signal of Ethiopian Airlines’ vision for the future. As the largest operator of the A350 in Africa, the airline is doubling down on a technologically advanced and fuel-efficient aircraft to support its sustainable growth. The A350-900 is renowned for its operational efficiency and passenger comfort, aligning perfectly with the airline’s commitment to providing a world-class travel experience while navigating the competitive landscape of global aviation.
The timing of the announcement at the Dubai Airshow, a premier event for major aviation deals, underscores the airline’s proactive approach to securing its future fleet needs. This order complements other significant activities at the airshow, including a notable agreement with Boeing, showcasing a balanced and robust expansion plan. By investing in the latest generation of aircraft, Ethiopian Airlines is not just enhancing its operational capabilities but also making a strong statement about its role in shaping the future of air travel across Africa and beyond.
The agreement, formally signed by Ethiopian Airlines Group CEO, Mr. Mesfin Tasew, and Airbus’s EVP of Sales for Commercial Aircraft, Benoît de Saint-Exupéry, brings the carrier’s total A350 fleet count to 31. Prior to this order, the airline operated a mix of 21 A350-900s and four of the larger A350-1000 variants, making it the first African airline to operate the latter. This new firm order for six more A350-900s solidifies its status as the continent’s primary customer and operator of this modern widebody aircraft.
The choice of the A350-900 is a strategic one, rooted in the aircraft’s proven performance and advanced features. The A350 family is celebrated for its long-range capabilities, capable of flying up to 9,700 nautical miles (18,000 kilometers) non-stop. This allows for greater route flexibility, connecting Addis Ababa with major destinations across the globe efficiently. The aircraft’s design incorporates advanced aerodynamics, lightweight composite materials, and cutting-edge Rolls-Royce engines, which collectively contribute to its superior performance.
This expansion is a continuation of a fleet strategy that has seen Ethiopian Airlines consistently invest in modern aircraft. The airline has a history of pioneering new technology in Africa, having been the first on the continent to operate the A350. This forward-thinking approach has been central to its success, enabling it to build one of the most modern and efficient fleets in the industry. The latest order is a logical next step in this ongoing journey of modernization and growth.
“We are delighted to expand our Airbus fleet size with this order and strengthen our partnership with the Airbus company. As the continent’s leading airline and the largest operator of the A350, this milestone order further supports our vision to grow sustainably while providing a world-class travel experience to our passengers and strengthening our position as the aviation leader in Africa.”, Mr. Mesfin Tasew, Ethiopian Airlines Group CEO.
The decision to invest further in the A350-900 is heavily influenced by its environmental and economic benefits. The aircraft offers a significant 25% reduction in fuel burn and CO₂ emissions compared to previous-generation competitor aircraft. This efficiency is a critical advantage in an industry facing volatile fuel prices and increasing pressure to decarbonize. By lowering operating costs and reducing its carbon footprint, Ethiopian Airlines is positioning itself for long-term, sustainable success.
Furthermore, the commitment to sustainability extends to the type of fuel these aircraft can use. The A350 is already certified to operate with up to 50% Sustainable Aviation Fuel (SAF), and Airbus is working towards enabling 100% SAF capability by 2030. This aligns with Ethiopian Airlines’ vision for a greener future and demonstrates a proactive stance on environmental responsibility, a factor of growing importance for passengers and regulators alike. Beyond the operational metrics, the A350 is designed with the passenger in mind. The aircraft features Airbus’s Airspace cabin, which is known for offering a quieter, more comfortable flying experience. Wider seats, larger overhead bins, and advanced air filtration systems contribute to a superior in-flight environment. By prioritizing passenger comfort, Ethiopian Airlines aims to enhance its brand reputation and attract more travelers, solidifying its status as a carrier of choice for international travel.
Ethiopian Airlines’ order for six more Airbus A350-900s is a powerful affirmation of its strategic goals. It reflects a clear focus on sustainable growth, operational excellence, and an unwavering commitment to passenger satisfaction. By continuing to invest in one of the most advanced and efficient aircraft on the market, the airline is not just expanding its fleet but is also future-proofing its operations against economic and environmental challenges.
This move, coupled with other recent fleet acquisitions, cements Ethiopian Airlines’ position as the undisputed leader in African aviation. It sends a strong message about the airline’s confidence in the future of air travel and its role in connecting Africa to the world. As these new aircraft join the fleet, they will undoubtedly play a crucial role in driving the airline’s continued success and shaping the next era of aviation on the continent.
Question: How many Airbus A350 aircraft will Ethiopian Airlines have after this new order? Question: What are the main benefits of the Airbus A350-900? Question: Where was the agreement for the new aircraft signed?
Ethiopian Airlines Solidifies African Leadership with New Airbus A350 Order
Expanding the Fleet: A Closer Look at the A350 Deal
Strategic Implications: Efficiency, Sustainability, and Passenger Experience
Conclusion: Charting a Course for Future Dominance
FAQ
Answer: With this new firm order for six A350-900s, Ethiopian Airlines’ total A350 fleet will grow to 31 aircraft. This includes their existing fleet of 21 A350-900s and four A350-1000s.
Answer: The A350-900 is a modern widebody aircraft known for its long-range capability (up to 9,700 nautical miles), fuel efficiency, and advanced technology. It offers a 25% reduction in fuel burn and CO₂ emissions compared to older generation aircraft and features the comfortable Airbus Airspace cabin.
Answer: The agreement was signed at the Dubai Airshow on November 18, 2025, a major international event for the aviation industry.
Sources
Photo Credit: Airbus
Aircraft Orders & Deliveries
Qanot Sharq Receives First Airbus A321XLR in Central Asia
Qanot Sharq becomes Central Asia’s first operator of the Airbus A321XLR, expanding long-haul routes to North America and Asia from Tashkent.
This article is based on an official press release from Airbus and Qanot Sharq.
On December 19, 2025, Qanot Sharq, Uzbekistan’s first private airline, officially took delivery of its first Airbus A321XLR (Extra Long Range) aircraft. The delivery, facilitated through a lease agreement with Air Lease Corporation (ALC), marks a historic milestone for aviation in the region, as Qanot Sharq becomes the launch operator of the A321XLR in Central Asia and the Commonwealth of Independent States (CIS).
This aircraft is the first of four confirmed A321XLR units destined for the carrier. According to the official announcement, the airline intends to utilize the aircraft’s extended range to open new long-haul markets that were previously inaccessible to single-aisle jets, including planned services to North America and East Asia.
The newly delivered A321XLR is powered by CFM International LEAP-1A engines and features a two-class layout designed to balance capacity with passenger comfort on longer sectors. The aircraft accommodates a total of 190 passengers.
In addition to the seating configuration, the aircraft is fitted with Airbus’ “Airspace” cabin interior. Key features include customizable LED lighting, lower cabin altitude settings to reduce jet lag, and XL overhead bins that provide 60% more storage capacity compared to previous generation aircraft.
Nosir Abdugafarov, the owner of Qanot Sharq, emphasized the strategic importance of the delivery in a statement regarding the fleet expansion.
“The A321XLR’s exceptional range and efficiency will allow us to offer greater comfort and convenience while maintaining highly competitive operating economics.”
, Nosir Abdugafarov, Owner of Qanot Sharq
The introduction of the A321XLR allows Qanot Sharq to deploy a narrowbody aircraft on routes typically reserved for widebody jets. With a range of up to 4,700 nautical miles (8,700 km), the airline plans to connect Tashkent with destinations in Europe, Asia, and North America.
According to the airline’s strategic roadmap, the new fleet will support route expansion to Sanya (China) and Busan (South Korea). Furthermore, the airline has explicitly outlined plans to serve New York (JFK) via Budapest. While the A321XLR has impressive range, the distance between Tashkent and New York (approximately 5,500 nm) necessitates a technical stop. Budapest will serve as this intermediate point, potentially allowing the airline to tap into passenger demand between Central Europe and the United States, subject to regulatory approvals. AJ Abedin, Senior Vice President of Marketing at Air Lease Corporation, noted the geographical advantages available to the airline.
“Qanot Sharq is uniquely positioned to unlock the full potential of the A321XLR due to its strategic location in Uzbekistan, bridging Europe and Asia.”
, AJ Abedin, SVP Marketing, Air Lease Corporation
The delivery of the A321XLR signals a distinct shift in the competitive landscape of Uzbek aviation. Until now, long-haul flights from Tashkent,specifically to the United States,have been the exclusive domain of the state-owned flag carrier, Uzbekistan Airways, which utilizes Boeing 787 Dreamliners for non-stop service.
By adopting the A321XLR, Qanot Sharq appears to be pursuing a “long-haul low-cost” hybrid model. The A321XLR burns approximately 30% less fuel per seat than previous-generation aircraft, allowing the private carrier to operate long routes with significantly lower trip costs than its state-owned competitor. While the one-stop service via Budapest will result in a longer total travel time compared to Uzbekistan Airways’ direct flights, the lower operating costs could allow Qanot Sharq to offer more competitive fares, appealing to price-sensitive travelers and labor migrants.
Furthermore, the choice of Budapest as a stopover is strategic. If Qanot Sharq secures “Fifth Freedom” rights,which are currently a subject of regulatory negotiation,it could monetize the empty seats on the Budapest-New York sector, effectively competing in the transatlantic market while serving its primary base in Central Asia.
Sources: Airbus Press Release, Air Lease Corporation
Qanot Sharq Becomes First Central Asian Operator of Airbus A321XLR
Aircraft Configuration and Capabilities
Strategic Network Expansion
AirPro News Analysis: The Long-Haul Low-Cost Shift
Sources
Photo Credit: Airbus
Airlines Strategy
Kenya Airways Plans Secondary Hub in Accra with Project Kifaru
Kenya Airways advances plans for a secondary hub at Accra’s Kotoka Airport, leveraging partnerships and regional aircraft to boost intra-African connectivity.
This article summarizes reporting by AFRAA and official statements from Kenya Airways.
Kenya Airways (KQ) is moving forward with strategic plans to establish a secondary operational hub at Kotoka International Airport (ACC) in Accra, Ghana. According to reporting by the African Airlines Association (AFRAA) and recent company statements, this initiative represents a critical pillar of “Project Kifaru,” the airlines‘s three-year recovery and growth roadmap.
The proposed expansion aims to deepen intra-African connectivity by positioning Accra as a pivotal node for West African operations. Rather than launching a wholly-owned subsidiary, a model that requires heavy capital expenditure, Kenya Airways intends to utilize a partnership-driven approach, leveraging existing relationships with regional carriers to feed long-haul networks.
While the Kenyan government formally requested permission for the hub in May 2025, Kenya Airways CEO Allan Kilavuka confirmed in December 2025 that the plan remains under active study. A final decision on the full execution of the project is expected in 2026.
The core of the Accra strategy involves basing aircraft directly in West Africa to serve high-demand regional routes. According to details emerging from the planning phase, Kenya Airways intends to deploy three Embraer E190-E1 aircraft to Kotoka International Airport. These aircraft will facilitate regional connections, feeding passengers into the carrier’s long-haul network and supporting the logistics needs of the region.
This operational shift marks a departure from the traditional “hub-and-spoke” model centered exclusively on Nairobi. By establishing a presence in Ghana, KQ aims to capture traffic in a market currently dominated by competitors such as Ethiopian Airlines (via its ASKY partner in Lomé) and Air Côte d’Ivoire.
A key component of this strategy is the airline’s collaboration with Ghana-based Africa World Airlines (AWA). Kenya Airways signed a codeshare agreement with AWA in May 2022. This partnership allows KQ to connect passengers from its Nairobi-Accra service to AWA’s domestic and regional network, covering destinations like Kumasi, Takoradi, Lagos, and Abuja.
Industry observers note that this “capital-light” model reduces the financial risks associated with starting a new airline from scratch. Instead of competing directly on every thin route, KQ can rely on AWA to provide feed traffic while focusing its own metal on key trunk routes. The push for a West African hub comes as Kenya Airways navigates a complex financial recovery. The airline reported a significant milestone in the 2024 full financial year, posting an operating profit of Ksh 10.5 billion and a net profit of Ksh 5.4 billion, its first profit in 11 years. This resurgence provided the initial confidence to pursue the growth phase of Project Kifaru.
However, the first half of 2025 presented renewed challenges. The airline reported a Ksh 12.2 billion loss for the period, attributed largely to currency volatility and the grounding of its Boeing 787 fleet due to global spare parts shortages. These financial realities underscore the necessity of the proposed low-capital expansion model in Accra.
The strategy focuses on collaboration with existing African carriers rather than creating a new airline from scratch.
, Summary of Kenya Airways’ strategic approach
The viability of the Accra hub relies heavily on the Single African Air Transport Market (SAATM) and “Fifth Freedom” rights, which allow an airline to fly between two foreign countries. West Africa has been a leader in implementing these protocols, making Accra a legally feasible location for a secondary hub.
Furthermore, the African Continental Free Trade Area (AfCFTA) secretariat is headquartered in Accra. Kenya Airways is positioning itself to support the trade bloc by facilitating the movement of people and cargo between East and West Africa. The airline has already introduced Boeing 737-800 freighters to serve key destinations including Lagos, Dakar, Freetown, and Monrovia.
The decision to delay a final “go/no-go” confirmation until 2026 suggests a prudent approach by Kenya Airways management. While the West African market is lucrative, it is also saturated with aggressive competitors like Air Peace and the well-entrenched ASKY/Ethiopian Airlines alliance. By opting for a partnership model with Africa World Airlines rather than a full subsidiary, KQ avoids the “cash burn” trap that led to the collapse of previous pan-African airline ventures. If successful, this could serve as a blueprint for other mid-sized African carriers looking to expand without overleveraging their balance sheets.
What aircraft will be based in Accra? When will the hub become operational? How does this affect the Nairobi hub?
Kenya Airways Advances Plans for Secondary Hub in Accra Under ‘Project Kifaru’
Operational Strategy: The ‘Mini-Hub’ Model
Partnership with Africa World Airlines
Financial Context and ‘Project Kifaru’
Regulatory Landscape and Competition
AirPro News Analysis
Frequently Asked Questions
Current plans indicate that Kenya Airways intends to base three Embraer E190-E1 aircraft at Kotoka International Airport.
While planning is underway and government requests have been filed, a final decision on full execution is not expected until 2026.
Nairobi (Jomo Kenyatta International Airport) remains the primary hub. The Accra facility is designed as a secondary node to improve regional connectivity and feed traffic back into the global network.
Sources
Photo Credit: Embraer – E190
Commercial Aviation
Derazona Helicopters Receives First H160 for Energy Missions in Southeast Asia
Airbus delivers the first H160 to Derazona Helicopters in Indonesia, enhancing offshore oil and gas transport with advanced fuel-efficient technology.
This article is based on an official press release from Airbus Helicopters.
On December 19, 2025, Airbus Helicopters officially delivered the first H160 rotorcraft to Derazona Helicopters (PT. Derazona Air Service) in Jakarta, Indonesia. According to the manufacturer’s announcement, this delivery represents a significant regional milestone, as Derazona becomes the first operator in Southeast Asia to utilize the H160 specifically for energy sector missions, including offshore oil and gas transport.
The handover marks the culmination of a strategic acquisition process that began with an initial order in April 2021. Derazona, a historic Indonesian aviation company established in 1971, intends to deploy the medium-class helicopter for a variety of critical missions, ranging from offshore transport to utility operations and commercial passenger services.
The introduction of the H160 into the Indonesian market signals a shift toward modernizing aging fleets in the archipelago. Derazona Helicopters stated that the aircraft will play a pivotal role in their expansion within the oil and gas sector, a primary economic driver for the region.
In a statement regarding the delivery, Ramadi Widyardiono, Director of Production at Derazona Helicopters, emphasized the operational advantages of the new airframe:
“The arrival of our first H160 marks an exciting chapter for Derazona Helicopters. As the pioneer operator of this aircraft for energy missions in Southeast Asia, we are eager to deploy its unique capabilities to serve our various clients with the highest levels of safety and efficiency. The H160’s proven performance will be key to reinforcing our position as a leader in helicopter services in Southeast Asia.”
Airbus executives echoed this sentiment, highlighting the aircraft’s suitability for the demanding geography of Indonesia. Regis Magnac, Vice President Head of Energy, Leasing and Global Accounts at Airbus Helicopters, noted the importance of this partnership:
“We are proud to see the H160 enter service in Southeast Asia, cementing our relationship with Derazona as they become the region’s launch customer for energy missions. The H160 represents a true generational leap, built to be an efficient, reliable, and comfortable workhorse, perfectly suited for the demanding operational requirements of the Indonesian energy sector.”
According to technical data provided by Airbus, the H160 is designed to replace previous-generation medium helicopters such as the AS365 Dauphin and H155. The aircraft incorporates several proprietary technologies aimed at improving safety and reducing environmental impact.
Key technical features cited in the release include: Airbus claims the H160 delivers a 15% reduction in fuel burn compared to previous generation engines, aligning with the energy sector’s increasing focus on reducing Scope 1 and 2 emissions in their logistics supply chains.
The delivery of the H160 to Derazona Helicopters reflects a broader trend we are observing across the Asia-Pacific aviation market: the prioritization of “eco-efficient” logistics. As oil and gas majors face stricter carbon reporting requirements, the pressure cascades down to their logistics providers.
By adopting the H160, Derazona is not merely upgrading its fleet age; it is positioning itself competitively to bid for contracts with energy multinationals that now weigh carbon footprint heavily in their tender processes. The move away from legacy airframes like the Bell 412 or Sikorsky S-76 toward next-generation composite aircraft suggests that fuel efficiency is becoming as critical a metric as payload capacity in the offshore sector.
Who is the operator of the new H160? What is the primary use of this aircraft? How does the H160 improve upon older helicopters? When was this specific aircraft ordered? Sources: Airbus Helicopters Press Release
Derazona Helicopters Becomes Southeast Asia’s First H160 Energy Operator
Modernizing Indonesia’s Energy Fleet
Technical Profile: The H160
AirPro News Analysis
Frequently Asked Questions
The operator is PT. Derazona Air Service (Derazona Helicopters), an Indonesian aviation company headquartered at Halim Perdanakusuma Airport, Jakarta.
It will be used primarily for offshore energy transport (supporting oil rigs), as well as utility missions and VIP transport.
The H160 offers a 15% reduction in fuel consumption, significantly lower noise levels due to Blue Edge™ blades, and advanced Helionix® avionics for improved safety.
Derazona originally placed the order for this H160 in April 2021.
Photo Credit: Airbus
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