Ethiopian Airlines has officially launched construction of Bishoftu International Airport, a major aviation infrastructure project located approximately 24.8 mi. south of Addis Ababa.
The groundbreaking ceremony took place on Jan. 10 and was attended by Prime Minister Abiy Ahmed, senior government officials, and Ethiopian Airlines Group CEO Mesfin Tasew.
The airline also unveiled the airport’s architectural design and confirmed the completion of the resettlement and livelihood restoration program for communities affected by the project.
Speaking at the ceremony, Tasew described the project as “transformative” for African aviation.
“We are embarking on a new chapter with the ground-breaking of Bishoftu International Airport that will redefine the continent’s aviation ecosystem,” he said.
“As we celebrate 80 years of service, this project stands as yet another milestone, underscoring our commitment to shaping the future of the African air transport industry.”
Tasew added that the new airport would help address Africa’s infrastructure gap and support the African Continental Free Trade Area (AfCFTA) by strengthening regional and global connectivity.
Phase One of the airport is expected to be completed by 2030 and will have the capacity to handle up to 60 million passengers annually.
The second phase will expand terminal facilities to accommodate up to 110 million passengers per year. More than 100,000 m2 of cargo facilities are also under construction, with the capacity to process up to 3.73 million tons of cargo annually.
In addition to aviation infrastructure, the project will include an airport city featuring hotels, shopping centers, and recreational facilities.
Related Content
