Ethiopian Airlines officially inaugurated its new airport in Yabello on Aug. 31, marking a significant expansion of its domestic network.
The facility in southern Ethiopia will initially host three weekly flights operated by the flag carrier’s De Havilland Dash 8-400 aircraft.
Built at a cost of more than ETB1 billion ($7 million), the airport is located 11 km (7 mi.) from Yabello Town in Borena Zone. The project includes a new airfield, access roads, a temporary passenger terminal, and supporting infrastructure.
With the addition of Yabello, Ethiopian Airlines’ domestic network now reaches 23 destinations. The Yabello launch follows a series of airport upgrades and new routes introduced by Ethiopian Airlines, including recent expansions at Gode, Jinka, Dembi Dollo, and Axum. The expansion is part of the flag carrier’s long-term Vision 2035 growth strategy, which aims to position the airline among the world’s leading aviation groups by investing in both domestic and international infrastructure.
“The completion of the Yabello Airport project demonstrates Ethiopian Airlines’ commitment to advancing aviation infrastructure that transforms lives and connects communities across Ethiopia,” CEO Mesfin Tasew says. “This is a transformative moment for the local community and the entire region and as the flag carrier of Ethiopia, we are proud to have made this moment a reality.”
The new airport is expected to boost regional trade, tourism, and investment, while also enhancing Ethiopia’s capacity to respond to emergencies such as droughts and floods. The Dash 8-400 turboprop was selected for the Yabello route due to its efficiency on short runways and suitability for regional operations.
Ethiopian Airlines currently operates flights to more than 160 passenger and cargo destinations worldwide with a fleet that also includes Airbus A350s and Boeing 737s, 777s, 787s.
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