Joep Ellers, Airbus's Airline Marketing Director for Africa, has lauded Ethiopian Airlines as a paramount success story for the continent's aviation sector. With over 80 years of operation, the airline significantly enhances intra-African and international connectivity, bolstering economic development through tourism, investment, and job creation. Ethiopian Airlines operates modern fleets, including the A350-900 and A350-1000, demonstrating a commitment to efficiency and modernization. Ellers highlighted the airline's ambitious expansion strategy and its "pioneer spirit" in connecting African and global markets. He also commended the airline's exceptional service culture and its comprehensive aviation ecosystem, which includes MRO, training via the Ethiopian Aviation Academy, hospitality, and visa support. The long-standing collaboration between Airbus and Ethiopian Airlines spans aircraft maintenance, fleet planning, training programs with international institutions, and discussions on future aircraft like the A220 and A330neo.