Ethiopia is set to embark on an ambitious infrastructure project that will reshape the aviation landscape in Africa. Ethiopian Airlines has signed an agreement to design a new four-runway airport, which will become the largest in Africa upon completion in 2029. The airport, strategically located near Bishoftu, approximately 45 km from Addis Ababa, will revolutionize the continent’s aviation capabilities.
The new facility will be equipped to handle a staggering 100 million passengers annually and accommodate 270 aircraft. This development is expected to significantly alleviate congestion at Bole Addis Ababa International Airport, which is currently nearing its capacity of 25 million passengers per year. Ethiopian Airlines’ CEO, Mesfin Tasew, emphasized that the project will enhance the airline’s operational efficiency and support its growing passenger base.
Dubai-based engineering and consulting firm Sidara has been chosen to design this monumental airport. Tariq Al Qanni, the company’s director of operations, confirmed the firm’s commitment to delivering a world-class design. The project was first announced in 2018, and its progression highlights Ethiopia’s dedication to advancing its infrastructure.
Phase one of the project alone is projected to cost around $6 billion, with funding expected to come through loans and investments from interested companies. The scale of the investment reflects the significant impact this project will have on the region’s connectivity and economic growth.
Ethiopian Airlines, which carried 17 million passengers in the 2023/2024 financial year, anticipates reaching 20 million passengers in the current fiscal year. The new airport will play a crucial role in accommodating this growth and reinforcing Ethiopia’s position as a key aviation hub in Africa.
This monumental endeavor marks a significant step forward for Ethiopia and the broader African aviation industry. As the construction progresses, it will be closely watched as a benchmark for future infrastructure projects across the continent.
EthiopianAirlines #AfricanAviation #InfrastructureDevelopment #AirportExpansion #GlobalConnectivity #EconomicGrowth #AviationIndustry #Ethiopia
