The Ethiopian government has officially started constructing what is expected to be Africa's largest airport, aiming for completion by 2029 with a lau
The Ethiopian government has officially started constructing what is expected to be Africa’s largest airport, aiming for completion by 2029 with a launch set for 2030. Prime Minister Abiy Ahmed announced this during his address to Ethiopia’s House of Peoples’ Representatives.
Features
The new airport, located near Bishoftu (45 km from Addis Ababa), will feature four runways and is designed to accommodate up to 100 million passengers annually, with parking for 270 aircraft. A rail link will connect the airport to existing infrastructure, enhancing accessibility and passenger flow. Ethiopian Airlines, Africa’s largest carrier, is deeply integrated into this project, with plans for significant fleet expansion through the purchase of 124 new planes.
“Ordering 124 planes is no small feat; it’s a remarkable achievement. This expansion not only solidifies Ethiopian Airlines as the largest aircraft operator in Africa but also positions it as a powerhouse with a substantial airport facility,” said Prime Minister Abiy Ahmed
The Dubai-based engineering firm Sidara, led by operations head Tariq Al Qanni, has been awarded the contract to design the ambitious project. This development is poised to boost Ethiopia’s strategic role in aviation, positioning Ethiopian Airlines and the country as central players in Africa’s air transport industry.