Ethiopian Airlines opens A350XWB training centre

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Ethiopian Airlines has acquired the first A350XWB simulator in Africa which it is using to train pilots for its Airbus A350XWB fleet.
“The A350XWB Full-Flight Simulator is a valuable asset to Ethiopian Aviation Academy and strategically positions the airline, and Ethiopia, as an A350XWB training centre of excellence. Once again, Ethiopian Airlines has shown the industry, Africa and the world what can be achieved through combined vision, strategy, talent and investments in the right equipment,” said Fouad Attar, Head of Commercial Aircraft, Airbus Africa Middle East.

The A350XWB simulator is fitted with a full electrical motion system which delivers improved performance while providing energy savings and environmental benefits.

Tewolde GebreMariam, Group CEO of Ethiopian Airlines, remarked: “The introduction of the A350XWB 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 for our other aircraft types.
“All in all, we have invested over US$125 million in the last seven 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 equaliser of our time and our aim is to make Africa self-sufficient in aviation professionals”.

Ethiopian Airlines’ Pilot Training School has trained pilots from over 52 countries in Africa, the Middle East, Asia and Europe for close to 50 years.

Ethiopian Airlines took delivery of Africa’s first Airbus A350XWB jetliner in 2016. It currently operates seven A350XWBs and has 17 more on order.