The expansion of Ethiopian Airlines is set to reach a new scale with the potential acquisition of 26 aircraft from European manufacturer Airbus. According to reports from Bloomberg, the Addis Ababa–based carrier is evaluating the purchase of six Airbus A350-1000 widebody aircraft and up to 20 A220s, marking the potential debut of the A220 within the fleet of Africa’s largest airline.

This negotiation arrives amidst fierce regional competition and aims to strengthen both long-haul routes and regional connectivity. The A220, originally developed by Bombardier as the CSeries, is renowned for its performance at high-altitude airports — a vital factor for the airline’s hub at Bole International Airport (ADD). Located at an elevation of 7,630 feet, the airport presents significant challenges due to lower air density, which reduces engine performance and lift. The Pratt & Whitney PW1500G engines on the A220 provide an operational edge in these environments compared to older-generation aircraft.

For the long-haul segment, additional A350s would allow the company to optimize its flight programming to destinations across the Americas and Asia. Currently, the fleet includes 26 A350 aircraft (22 of the -900 variant and four of the -1000), with 17 more units awaiting delivery. Unlike the -900, the A350-1000 offers higher passenger and cargo capacity, featuring a MTOW (Maximum Take-Off Weight) that enables ultra-long-range flights without severe fuel or payload penalties.

What aircraft is Ethiopian Airlines negotiating to buy from Airbus?

Ethiopian is in talks to acquire up to 20 Airbus A220s for regional operations and six Airbus A350-1000s for long-haul routes.

Why is the A220 suitable for Ethiopian’s operations?

The A220, powered by Pratt & Whitney PW1500G engines, performs well at high-altitude airports like Addis Ababa’s Bole International Airport, where lower air density reduces engine performance and lift.

How would A350-1000s affect Ethiopian’s long-haul network?

The A350-1000 offers higher passenger and cargo capacity and greater MTOW, enabling ultra-long-range flights with fewer fuel or payload penalties, which could increase frequencies or allow dedicated direct services to destinations such as São Paulo and Buenos Aires.

How does this potential deal fit into Ethiopian’s broader strategy?

The fleet expansion aligns with the airline’s Vision 2035 and supports the new $12.5 billion Bishoftu International Airport project, aimed at handling 100 million passengers and alleviating congestion at current facilities.

Is Ethiopian diversifying its manufacturers?

Yes. In 2026 the airline exercised options for 15 Boeing 787-9s and is now negotiating with Airbus, a strategy that diversifies suppliers and mitigates supply-chain risks.

The $12.5 billion Bishoftu project and global reach

The fleet growth is a pillar of the airline’s “Vision 2035” strategy, centered on the construction of the new Bishoftu International Airport. With a $12.5 billion investment, this project will feature four runways and a projected capacity for 100 million annual passengers. Construction began in January 2026 to address the increasing congestion at the current facilities.

This expansion solidifies Ethiopia’s role as a primary bridge between the Global South and the rest of the world. In South America, Ethiopian remains a key player, connecting São Paulo (GRU) and Buenos Aires (EZE) to its vast network. The addition of the A350-1000 could lead to increased frequency or the decoupling of these routes into dedicated direct flights as demand grows.

This potential deal with Airbus follows an earlier move in 2026, where the airline exercised options for 15 Boeing 787-9 Dreamliners. By diversifying between major manufacturers, Ethiopian Airlines mitigates supply chain risks while tailoring specific aircraft models to a global network that now spans over 130 international destinations.