Ethiopian Airlines has announced that the construction of the Bishoftu International airport is expected to break ground in November. The project has been hallmarked as one of Africa’s most ambitious aviation infrastructure projects. Furthermore, once complete, it is expected to be Africa’s largest airport. The airport will be located approximately 39 kilometers southeast of Addis Ababa, near the town of Bishoftu. Moreover, it will become a central pillar of Ethiopia’s long-term aviation and economic development strategy. Its construction will complement the Bole International Airport which is currently the country’s main airport. The $10 billion megaproject will span over 35 square kilometers, more than three times the size of the existing Bole Airport. Furthermore, it will have the capacity of handling up to 100 million passengers per year. Its successful implementation will position Ethiopia as a continental and global aviation hub.
The Scope of Implementation on the Bishoftu International Airport as Africa’s Largest
According to Ethiopian Airlines CEO, Ato Mesfin Tasew, the Bishoftu International Airport will include several features. These include three parallel runways, capable of handling the world’s largest aircraft including the Airbus A380. A modern terminal complex with cutting-edge technology and streamlined passenger experience will also be implemented. Furthermore, a dedicated cargo terminal with a minimum handling capacity of 3 million tons of freight annually will be included. This will facilitate in the handling of cargo being imported and exported from the country. A world-class MRO (Maintenance, Repair and Overhaul) facility is also in the plans. Its aim is to support both Ethiopian Airlines and third-party carriers. Logistics parks, training centers, cold-chain storage for perishables, and commercial areas will also be in the works to support broader economic activity.
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Africa’s Biggest Airport Set to be Constructed in Ethiopia
The Contractors Involved in Africa’s Largest Airport
The construction of Africa’s largest airport will borrow expertise from several local and international-based companies. The design and consultancy contract for the airport was awarded in 2024 to a high-profile international consortium. The master planning and technical advisory services are being led by Dar Al‑Handasah Consultants. The company is collaborating with others such as Zaha Hadid Architects to ensure complimentary delivery. Conversely, Sidara, a Dubai-based engineering and design firm has been commissioned to lead the airport’s architectural and technical design. These include runway layout, passenger terminals, cargo hubs, and aviation support infrastructure. This team brings extensive experience designing global mega-hubs. Their expertise includes work on airports in Dubai, Riyadh, and Istanbul.
The Significance of the Airport in Ethiopia
The implementation of the Bishoftu International Airport will also see a dedicated expressway and railway line constructed. The aim of this is to ensure seamless access between Bishoftu and Addis Ababa. Furthermore, the government envisions the development of an “airport city.” The city will be an urban complex with residential, commercial, hospitality and logistical functions. It will harness the full economic potential of the airport and create thousands of jobs. To finance the $10 billion project, Ethiopian Airlines is in advanced talks with the African Development Bank (AfDB) and other international financial partners. A mix of loans, equity investment, and public-private partnerships is expected to fund the multi-phase development.
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Ethiopian Airlines and AfDB Partner on $7.8B Africa’s Largest Bishoftu International Airport
