BA-Q400_NextGen_Ethiopian

Addis Ababa-based Ethiopian Airlines has become the first carrier to take delivery of Q400 NextGen turboprop jetliners fitted with a dual-class configuration.

Out of the order for five dual-class Q400 NextGen aircraft placed in February, the two aeroplanes delivered have entered service with the flag carrier and its affiliate ASKY Airlines of Togo.

Designed for short-haul routes, the new Q400 NextGen configuration can seat up to 67 people, including seven in business class and the remaining in coach, as well as offering an increased cargo capacity.

It also features fore and aft lavatories, and a galley to offer meals.

Ethiopian Airlines chief executive officer Tewolde Gebremariam said the dual-class seating would allow the carrier to provide the best possible service on domestic and regional short-haul routes.

"Overall, our experience with this excellent aircraft in a wide range of weather and other conditions proves that it is ideally suited for operations in Africa," Gebremariam said.

"Overall, our experience with this excellent aircraft in a wide range of weather and other conditions proves that it is ideally suited for operations in Africa."

Ethiopian Airlines will operate two dual-class Q400 NextGen aircraft, while the remaining three will enter service with ASKY Airlines.

Bombardier Commercial Aircraft Middle East and Africa Sales vice president Raphael Haddad said that as a repeat customer for Q400 aircraft, Ethiopian Airlines had become one of Africa’s leading airlines and together with ASKY, both carriers were taking full advantage of the Q400 NextGen aircraft’s cabin and operational flexibility.

Bombardier has logged 460 firm orders for Q400 and Q400 NextGen turboprops, and so far, more than 40 operators from 33 countries are operating its aircraft.

More than 40 Q400 and Q400 NextGen aircraft are either on firm order or in service with nine operators and leasing companies in Africa, including Ethiopian Airlines and ASKY Airlines.

Image: Bombardier’s dual-class Q400 NextGen aircraft configuration can accommodate seven passengers in business class and 60 in coach. Photo: courtesy of Bombardier.