Each aircraft will be configured with 383 of Safran’s Z400 seats, a lightweight and technologically advanced solution designed to elevate passenger experience and operational efficiency on long-haul routes. The Z400 seat offers a 13-inch in-flight entertainment screen—an upgrade from the previous 11.6-inch models—and is 12.5% lighter than earlier designs thanks to advanced composite materials and fewer components. The reduction in weight translates directly into lower fuel consumption and enhanced sustainability—a key priority for both partners.

Mr Mesfin Tasew, Group CEO of Ethiopian Airlines, commented on the deal:

“We are pleased to have signed this MoU with Safran for the provision of the Z400 seats for our 777-9 aircraft. As a technology-driven airline, we are committed to enhancing our passengers’ onboard experience through state-of-the-art solutions that ensure both comfort and operational efficiency.”

The agreement further cements a longstanding partnership between the two companies. Safran Seats already supplies both business and economy class seating for Ethiopian’s Airbus A350 fleet—a relationship built on mutual trust and a shared drive for innovation.

Victoria Foy, CEO of Safran Seats, said:

“We are delighted to deepen our partnership with Ethiopian Airlines by providing our advanced Z400 seats for their B777-9 fleet. This collaboration reflects our shared commitment to innovation and excellence in passenger comfort, supporting Ethiopian Airlines as it expands its horizons and enhances its inflight services.”

Safran Group at a Glance
Safran is a global high-tech leader in aviation, defence, and space markets, with a strong commitment to making air transport more environmentally responsible and accessible. With 100,000 employees worldwide and €27.3 billion in sales in 2024, Safran continues to lead in propulsion systems, aircraft interiors, and avionics. Listed on the Euronext Paris stock exchange, Safran is part of the CAC 40 and Euro Stoxx 50 indices.

Safran Seats is among the world’s top suppliers of aircraft seating solutions, with over one million seats currently flying aboard commercial and military aircraft worldwide.

Ethiopian Airlines – Connecting Africa to the World
Ethiopian Airlines operates one of the youngest and most modern fleets in the world, including Boeing 737s, 777s, 787 Dreamliners, Airbus A350-900s and A350-1000s, as well as De Havilland Q400 turboprops. With a vast network spanning over 160 destinations across five continents, Ethiopian continues to play a pivotal role in global connectivity.

A multiple award-winner, Ethiopian has been recognised by Skytrax as the “Best Airline in Africa” for seven consecutive years, and by APEX for “Best Overall in Africa” and “Leadership in Connecting Africa through Transport.” Under its ambitious ‘Vision 2035’ strategy, the airline aims to become one of the top 20 global aviation groups, further expanding its multi-hub model in Africa through strategic partnerships in Togo, Malawi, Zambia and the DRC.