Concept launched: July 2025
Elements: Comfort / Catering / Crew / Design / Technology
Ethiopian Airlines has recently taken delivery of a new A350-1000 aircraft, marking a significant milestone in the airline’s fleet modernisation efforts.
The investment is designed to improve the overall passenger experience through innovative cabin design, commitment to sustainability, cultural representation, passenger-centric innovations and exceptional service.
By being one of the first African airlines to operate the A350-1000, Ethiopian Airlines is setting a benchmark for the continent’s aviation sector.
Wellbeing in focus
Ethiopian Airlines places passenger comfort at the core of its onboard hospitality through personalised experience and thoughtful innovations. From the moment passengers step onboard, they are welcomed into an environment that prioritises ease and relaxation.
In Business Class, passengers are provided with premium-quality pyjamas and comfortable slippers, enabling them to relax, sleep, and move around the cabin with ease during long-haul flights.
Comfort extends beyond amenities into the inflight service itself. Ethiopian’s cabin crew plays a key role in delivering comfort through attentive, anticipatory service that responds to individual needs, ensuring each passenger feels cared for throughout the flight.
Service/Crew
Ethiopian Airlines enhances onboard service by combining cultural authenticity with professional excellence. On each flight, one, two or three cabin crew wear traditional Ethiopian uniforms, creating a warm, memorable connection with passengers and showcasing the airline’s heritage. This visual innovation is complemented by comprehensive training at the Ethiopian Aviation University, ensuring crews deliver polished, knowledgeable, and personalised service.
Catering
Ethiopian Airlines is redefining the inflight dining experience with menus crafted to delight, inspire, and celebrate culture. Ethiopian’s inflight catering concept was designed around key passenger touchpoints to ensure a seamless, engaging, and high-quality onboard dining experience, from first interaction to final service.
The menu includes carefully curated dishes developed specifically for onboard conditions. Recipes were optimised for flavour retention at altitude, balanced nutrition, and consistent presentation, while inclusive options addressed cultural, religious, and dietary needs, ensuring every passenger felt recognised and respected.
The airline has expanded its selections with vibrant starters, desserts, and fresh fruits.
Domestic flights feature wholesome, substantial food rather than light snacks, ensuring quality dining on every route.
Every plate is a work of art with modern plating techniques and a strong focus on visual presentation, and turning every meal into a beautiful, memorable moment in the journey.
Furthermore, sustainability is at the heart of the food service. Ethiopian is adopting more biodegradable and eco-friendly packaging, reinforcing its commitment to responsible travel.
Design
The A350-1000 offers a range of innovative features designed to enhance passenger experience. The largest aircraft in Ethiopian Airlines’ fleet, the A350-1000 features a spacious cabin that accommodates up to 395 passengers across luxurious Business and spacious Economy cabins. Business class passengers can enjoy direct aisle access, private rooms, and electrical dimmable windows. Finally, unique lighting creates a soothing and immersive atmosphere.
Technology
Seamless, high-speed internet connectivity is powered by ViaSat and Inmarsat. Inflight entertainment can be enjoyed on state-of-the-art Thales AvantUp IFE screens, ranging from 11.6″ to 17.3″ inches, featuring 4K resolution and a wide range of entertainment options.
High-power USB-A and USB-C outlets are available for passengers to charge their devices, and Bluetooth connectivity allows them to use their own headphones.
