Ethiopian Airlines flew the continent’s first Airbus 350-1000 from Addis Ababa to Murtala Muhammed International Airport (MMIA) in Lagos on Thursday.
Airbus handed the aircraft to Ethiopia a few days ago, and Ethiopia’s national flag airline is the first in Africa to fly it.
There were 257 people in the economy and 15 in business class among the 272 people on board.
Ethiopian Airlines was the first airline in Africa to launch a state-of-the-art aircraft, making the occasion a landmark in the continent’s aviation history.
Wondwossen Beyene, general manager of Ethiopian Airlines Nigeria, stated shortly after the plane touched down at MMIA that it was the aircraft’s first commercial voyage, demonstrating Ethiopian Airlines’ dedication to the Nigerian market.
“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.
“On board, passengers will experience unparalleled comfort on this Aircraft, because It is the first Aircraft 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,” Beyene said.
