Ethiopia has embarked on a significant initiative to enhance its aviation infrastructure by signing an agreement to design a new airport near Bishoftu, approximately 45 kilometers from Addis Ababa.
Spearheaded by Ethiopian Airlines, the project aims to establish the largest airport in Africa, with completion targeted for 2029.
The new facility will feature four runways and is designed to accommodate up to 110 million passengers annually, making it the continent’s highest-capacity airport.
The new airport is expected to alleviate congestion at Addis Ababa Bole International Airport, which is nearing its capacity limit of 25 million passengers per year.
Ethiopian Airlines CEO, Mesfin Tasew, emphasized that the project could significantly bolster the landlocked country’s economy and enhance global connectivity.
He noted that the airport would not only serve as a major transport hub but also reflect Ethiopian cultural heritage and promote sustainable practices.
The design contract has been awarded to Dubai-based engineering firm Sidara, in collaboration with Zaha Hadid Architects. This partnership aims to create a modern, efficient facility, with the initial phase focusing on essential infrastructure and a new terminal.
Dubbed the ‘Mega Airport City,’ this initiative is part of a broader strategy to position Ethiopia as a key aviation hub in Africa. The airport’s lower elevation, compared to the existing facility, is expected to reduce the operational challenges associated with high-altitude airports.
The project represents a substantial investment in Ethiopia’s aviation sector and is anticipated to enhance connectivity and drive economic growth in the region. As the airport project progresses, it is expected to further solidify Ethiopian Airlines’ status as a leading carrier in Africa and elevate Ethiopia’s profile on the global stage.
