Ethiopia Launches Construction of Africa’s Largest Airport Near Addis Ababa
Ethiopia has officially commenced the construction of what is set to be Africa’s largest airport, located in Bishoftu, around 40 km southeast of Addis Ababa. This ambitious project aims to bolster the region’s aviation capacity, with plans for completion by 2030.
A Transformative Project for African Air Travel
The new Bishoftu airport will feature four runways and the capacity to accommodate up to 270 aircraft simultaneously. The initial phase of construction will allow the airport to handle 60 million passengers annually, with a future expansion of capacity intended to manage up to 110 million passengers per year. This development is a significant leap forward from the current Bole International Airport, Ethiopia’s primary international airport, which is predicted to reach its full capacity of 25 million passengers in just a couple of years.
Prime Minister Abiy Ahmed emphasized that this project will not only enhance Ethiopian Airlines’ global competitiveness but also improve connectivity across Africa. He stated, “The project will strengthen Ethiopian Airlines’ global competitiveness, enhance Africa’s connectivity under the AfCFTA framework, expand trade and tourism corridors, and position Ethiopia as a premier intercontinental hub.”
Financing and Economic Implications
The estimated cost of this project exceeds $12.5 billion, with Ethiopian Airlines contributing roughly 30% of the total expenses. The remainder will be financed through unnamed lenders. In August, the African Development Bank (AfDB) was appointed as the lead arranger for the financing, aiming to mobilize about $10 billion, alongside a commitment of $500 million subject to board approval.
The strategic development of the Bishoftu airport is expected to create a high-capacity airport that aligns with global standards and facilitates increased air traffic within Africa. Currently, Africa’s major airports, including Cairo International Airport and Johannesburg’s OR Tambo Airport, dominate the sector, but the Bishoftu project could redefine the continent’s aviation landscape.
Projected Growth in African Air Traffic
According to the International Air Transport Association (IATA), African air traffic is projected to grow at an average rate of 4.1% annually over the next 20 years. This growth is expected due to rising demographics, urbanization, and improved intra-African trade links. However, the airline sector’s profit margins remain a concern, with IATA forecasting a net profit of only $1.30 per passenger for African airlines in 2026 compared to a global average of $7.90.
The development of this airport is not merely an infrastructure upgrade but a crucial step toward making Africa more competitive in global aviation markets and enhancing regional connectivity.
Conclusion
Ethiopia’s investment in the Bishoftu airport represents a significant advancement in African aviation infrastructure, positioning the nation as a major player in intercontinental air transport. This project will not only improve regional connectivity but also foster economic growth through increased trade and tourism opportunities, ultimately altering the dynamics of air travel across the continent.
For more insights on air transport and regional development in Africa, visit IATA and African Development Bank.
