AerCap Holdings announced the delivery of a new Airbus A350-900 to Ethiopian Airlines, the first of two new A350-900 aircraft deliveries on long-term lease to the airline from AerCap’s order book with Airbus.

The aircraft was transferred to Ethiopian Airlines at a ceremony in the Airbus Delivery Centre in Toulouse, and is the first A350 XWB aircraft to be delivered to an African carrier. A second new A350-900 aircraft is scheduled for delivery to Ethiopian Airlines in August.

AerCap’s Airbus A350 XWB portfolio features a total of four owned and another 25 on order aircraft.

“Ethiopian Airlines is a longstanding customer and we are delighted to support its fleet renewal program by delivering their first A350-900 aircraft,” said Philip Scruggs, AerCap president and chief commercial officer. “The Airbus A350-900 will offer Ethiopian Airlines greater capacity and increased range for its growing network, as well as greater operational efficiency. We look forward to continuing our successful relationship with our friends and partners at Ethiopian Airlines as the airline optimizes its fleet.”