Ethiopian adds Airbus 350 XWB full-flight simulator

February 27, 2018: The growing Aviation Group in Africa and SKYTRAX certified Four Star Global Airline, Ethiopian Airlines, announced that it had achieved yet another milestone, becoming the first A350 XWB simulator operator in Africa. This machine is fitted with a full electrical motion system which delivers improved performance while providing energy savings and environmental benefits, says a media release.

Tewolde GebreMariam, Group CEO of Ethiopian Airlines, said, “The introduction of the A350 XWB full-flight simulator is a continuation of our pioneering role in African aviation Technology. It is part of our Vision 2025 strategic roadmap to be fully self-sufficient in the provision of pilot training in all the aircraft type we operate. It complements the other full-flight simulators we are already operating such as the B787, B-777, B737, B757, B767 and Q400.

All in all, we have invested over $125 million in the last 7 years to expand and upgrade all the facets of our training capabilities. These investments are meant to bridge the aviation skill gap in Africa and to avail well trained and qualified aviation professionals in the continent. Education is the biggest Equalizer of our time, and we aim to make Africa self-sufficient in aviation professionals.”

The release further says the Pilot Training School of the airline has trained pilots from over 52 countries in Africa, the Middle East, Asia and Europe for close to 50 years. With its over six decades of existence, the training division of the airline, Ethiopian Aviation Academy, ICAO designated center of excellence, is a world-class Aviation Training Center equipped with state-of-the-art and best in class training equipment and technology offering full range of Aviation Training Programs.

Taking delivery of Africa’s first Airbus A350 XWB in 2016, Ethiopian currently operates seven A350 XWBs with 17 on order.