Nigeria on Thursday played host to the first Africa’s Airbus 350-1000 operated by Ethiopian Airlines.
The aircraft landed at Murtala Muhammed International Airport (MMIA), Lagos from Addis Ababa and was welcomed with a ceremonial water salute by officials of the Aerodrome Rescue and Firefighting Service (ARFFS).
The aircraft it was gathered had landed at Addis Ababa Bole International Airport, basking in a warm welcome marked by a spectacular water cannon salute.
And straight from Addis Ababa, it landed at the MMIA, Lagos on Thursday with 272 passengers on board comprising 15 in Business Class and 257 in Economy.
Speaking shortly after the aircraft landed MMIA, Wondwossen Beyene, general manager, Ethiopian Airlines Nigeria said the flight was the first commercial flight of the aircraft.
He stated that this underscores the commitment of Ethiopian Airlines to the Nigerian market, adding that the aircraft provides increased cargo capacity to boost freight transportation.
He said, “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.
The General Manager added that three of the modern aircraft are being expected to join the fleet of the airline.
“Today’s event would not have been possible without the tireless efforts of Ethiopian Airlines’ team, and Federal Government of Nigeria, the Nigerian Civil Aviation Authority, and the Lagos State Government for their unwavering support.
“We are expecting three more Airbus A350-1000 Aircrafts in a few months ahead,” he said.
Ethiopian Airlines in another statement after the arrival of the aircraft quoted the Group CEO Mr. Mesfin Tasew as saying, “We are thrilled to welcome the Airbus A350-1000 to our fleet, solidifying our position as leaders in aviation technology. This aircraft embodies cutting-edge advancements, offering superior passenger comfort, enhanced fuel efficiency, and reduced environmental impact. Together, we are pioneering a sustainable future for aviation in Africa.”
This state-of-the-art aircraft is the first to feature Thales’s AVANT Up inflight entertainment system and the HBC+ connectivity system, providing travelers with luxurious amenities, spacious seating, large screens, and a unique landscape camera.
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