Ethiopian Airlines Group which is Africa’s largest airline and has recently celebrated a significant milestone. The airline saw the inauguration of its new Yabello Airport. This airport is located in the southern part of Ethiopia’s Oromia Regional State.
Furthermore, the inauguration event was attended by senior government officials, airline executives, community leaders, and stakeholders. Additionally, the inauguration marked the launch of passenger flight services to the new facility.
Project Factsheet
Location: Yabello, in the Borena Zone of the Oromia Regional State, Ethiopia. The airport is located 11 kilometers from Yabello town.
Cost: Over 1 billion Ethiopian Birr.
Developer/operator: Ethiopian Airlines.
Inauguration and opening: The airport was officially inaugurated and opened for passenger services on August 31, 2025.
Key features and facilities:
- Runway: A new airfield with a 2.6-kilometer long and 45-meter wide runway. Also, it is designed to handle arrivals and departures from opposite directions to match wind patterns.
- Terminal: Includes a temporary terminal building and other supporting facilities.
- Access: New access roads have been constructed to connect the airport to the surrounding area.
Cost of Yabello Airport Project
The Yabello Airport was constructed at a cost exceeding 1 billion ETB.
The airport project includes a modern airfield, access roads, a temporary terminal, and essential supporting facilities. Additionally, these additions on the airport are set to transform the region by improving access and fostering economic growth.
Ethiopian Airlines Group CEO, Mr. Mesfin Tasew, spoke at the inauguration, highlighting the project’s significance. “The Yabello Airport showcases our dedication to building aviation infrastructure that connects communities and transforms lives positively across Ethiopia,” he stated.
“ Furthermore, this is a proud moment for us as Ethiopia’s flag carrier, as we contribute to the region’s socio-economic progress.”
Impact
Additionally, the new airport is expected to have a transformative impact on the Borena Zone and beyond. Also, the airport will improve access to southern Oromia and boost regional trade, tourism, and investment while strengthening people-to-people connections.
Part of a Bigger Vision
Furthermore, the facility aligns with Ethiopia’s national development goals which entail promoting sustainable growth and regional integration. Also, for local communities, the airport opens new opportunities, making travel easier and supporting economic activities.
Lastly, the Yabello project is part of Ethiopian Airlines’ broader efforts to expand the country’s domestic aviation network. For a long time, the airline has been a key player in bridging communities and driving sustainable development across the country.
Other Airport Projects by Ethiopian Airlines
In another airport project that Ethiopian Airlines is participating in development, Bishfotu International Airport also was earmarked funds for development by the airline. This airport once completed, will become the largest in Africa and cement the airlines’ reputation as the leading in Africa. By participating in development of airport projects, the airline will expand its domestic and regional reach. Therefore, this allows them to create more direct routes and better connect smaller towns in Ethiopia and regions in Africa and globally.
