Ethiopian Airlines Places Firm Order for Five Q400 NextGen

February 20, 2012 flight2000it

”The Q400 NextGen airliner has fully met our expectations for economics, performance and passenger acceptance,” said Ato Tewolde Gebremariam, Chief Executive Officer of Ethiopian Airlines. “Of great importance to us is the aircraft’s high rate of climb, single-engine service ceiling, and higher take-off weight, thus greater payload, when operating from our high altitude-hot weather airports.”

“Q400 and Q400 NextGen aircraft have been gaining headway in Africa, where Ethiopian Airlines and ten other operators now have more than 40 of these aircraft in service or on firm order,” said Mike Arcamone, President of Bombardier Commercial Aircraft. “Q400 aircraft are proving their high value in both the arid environment of Northern Africa and the moist environment in sub-Saharan Africa.”

The Q400 NextGen aircraft is a large, fast, quiet and fuel-efficient aircraft targeted for short-haul operations by providing an ideal balance of passenger comfort, strong operating economics, and reduced emissions. Setting new environmental standards, the Q400 NextGen aircraft uses 30-40% less fuel and thereby releasing 30-40% fewer emissions.

Ethiopian Airlines has been playing a key role in bringing the different regions of Ethiopia within easy reach of Addis and neighboring countries. The Q-400 aircraft is envisioned to increase the business and tourism market of the country by enhancing its domestic and regional services. Currently, Ethiopian operates 48 aircraft, of which eight are Q400 Bombardier. This order will increase the number of Q400 NextGen operated by Ethiopian to 13.

Source: Ethiopian Airlines