Bishoftu International Airport Project Takes Off as Ethiopian Airlines Begins Construction
Ethiopian Airlines Group, Africa’s largest and most successful carrier, has formally commenced construction of the Bishoftu International Airport, a flagship infrastructure project set to redefine aviation capacity and connectivity in Ethiopia and across the African continent.
Construction officially began on January 10, 2026, following a landmark groundbreaking ceremony attended by His Excellency Dr Abiy Ahmed, Prime Minister of the Federal Democratic Republic of Ethiopia, ministers, senior government officials, aviation industry leaders, key stakeholders and top executives of Ethiopian Airlines Group.
The ceremony marked a significant step in Ethiopia’s long-term vision to strengthen its position as a leading global aviation hub.
Prime Minister Abiy Ahmed, alongside high-ranking government officials and Ethiopian Airlines Group Chief Executive Officer, Mr Mesfin Tasew, jointly unveiled the commemorative plaque, symbolising the formal commencement of construction works on the expansive airport project.
As part of the event, Ethiopian Airlines unveiled the design of the Bishoftu International Airport, showcasing a modern, future-ready facility intended to support the airline’s ambitious growth plans.
The Group also confirmed the successful completion of the resettlement and livelihood restoration programme for communities affected by the development, emphasising its commitment to inclusive growth and responsible infrastructure development.
Speaking at the ceremony, Mr Mesfin Tasew described the project as a transformational moment for both Ethiopian Airlines and African aviation. He noted that the airport’s development coincides with the airline’s 80th anniversary, reinforcing its long-standing role as a pioneer in the continent’s air transport sector.
“This is a proud and historic moment for Ethiopian Airlines and for Africa,” Mr Tasew said. “The commencement of Bishoftu International Airport represents the beginning of a new chapter that will reshape Africa’s aviation ecosystem. As we celebrate 80 years of service, this project stands as a powerful statement of our commitment to the future of African air transport, while meeting the rapidly growing demand for passenger and cargo services.”
He further stressed that the new airport would play a critical role in narrowing Africa’s aviation infrastructure gap and supporting the objectives of the African Continental Free Trade Area (AfCFTA) by enhancing intra-African connectivity and facilitating trade flows across borders.
Prime Minister Abiy Ahmed, in his address, described the groundbreaking as a milestone in Ethiopia’s journey towards modernisation, economic growth and global competitiveness. He praised Ethiopian Airlines as a national asset and a symbol of resilience, innovation and excellence.
According to the Prime Minister, the airline’s success is rooted in a strong corporate culture that prioritises safety and security, fosters leadership driven by creativity and diligence, and is sustained by a highly committed workforce of over 26,000 employees who see the airline not just as a company, but as a national flag bearer.
He also highlighted the airline’s unwavering commitment to continuous learning, training and capacity building.
Bishoftu International Airport is expected to become one of the most significant aviation infrastructure projects in Africa, strengthening Ethiopia’s role as a continental and intercontinental hub.
The airport is designed to facilitate increased passenger traffic, cargo movement, tourism growth and people-to-people exchanges within Africa and with the rest of the world.
Phase One of the project is scheduled for completion by 2030 and will have the capacity to handle 60 million passengers annually.
When fully completed, Bishoftu International Airport is projected to accommodate up to 110 million passengers per year, placing it among the world’s largest airports and reinforcing Ethiopian Airlines’ position as a leading global aviation player.
