Africa’s first largest Airbus lands at KIA

Ethiopian Airlines’ newly acquired Airbus A350-1000, first in Africa, made its maiden landing at the Kilimanjaro International Airport (KIA) on November 10, 2024, in anticipation of strong business performance. As the aircraft touched down at KIA, it was greeted with a ceremonial water cannon salute, a traditional welcome for special arrivals. This grand gesture highlighted the significance of the occasion, celebrating not only the arrival of Africa’s first advanced Airbus, but also the strong partnership between Ethiopian Airlines and KIA. The A350-1000 is a recently released fuel-efficient long-range aircraft, billed to be environmentally friendly too. “We chose KIA as our first destination because of our strong business ties,” said Mr Fekadu Kebede, Ethiopian Airlines’ Traffic and Sales Manager in Arusha. “Ethiopian Airlines is proud to be a solid partner in Tanzania,” he told ‘The Arusha News’ shortly after the flight touched down. KIA’s Director of Operations and Technical Services, Mr Martin Kinyamagoha, stressed the importance of the event, stating, “The maiden flight underscores the strong partnership between Ethiopian Airlines and Tanzania. We are proud of our excellent relations and we look forward to strengthening them further.” The occasion attracted airport staff, airline representatives, local officials and special guests who gathered to witness the grand arrival of the cutting-edge wide-body jet at East Africa’s tourism gateway. Austrian tourist Mr Gerold Frisck, who was on the inaugural flight, expressed his delight: “It’s an excellent plane and I enjoyed the journey from Addis Ababa to KIA.” The Airbus A350-1000, known for its extended fuselage, increased seating capacity and advanced fuel efficiency, offers passengers a higher level of comfort while also reducing environmental impact. This aligns with Ethiopian Airlines’ commitment to sustainable and innovative growth. “This aircraft, one of the most modern and eco-friendly models in the skies today, reflects our dedication to delivering an exceptional passenger experience while minimising our carbon footprint,” added Mr Kebede. The airline will significantly expand its presence in Tanzania, increasing its weekly flights from 36 to 49 by December 2024. Fourteen flights shall be to KIA, 14 to Zanzibar and 21 to Dar es Salaam. Currently there are 11 weekly flights to KIA. The arrival of the advanced aircraft at KIA not only represents an exciting development for Ethiopian Airlines, but also strengthens KIA’s status as a premier aviation hub in East Africa.