Ethiopian Airlines Group, the largest airline in Africa, has announced the construction of Bishoftu International Airport has begun.
The $12.5billion (£9.3billion) project will mean the airport will be Africa’s largest once it’s completed in 2030.
Ethiopian Airlines also unveiled the airport’s design and resettlement project for affected communities in the new hub’s area.
Phase one of the project is expected to be completed by 2030 and will accommodate 60 million passengers annually.
When fully completed, it is set to have the capacity to handle 110 million passengers.
That is more than four times the capacity of Ethiopia’s current main airport.
The state-owned carrier began works in Bishoftu, 45km from the capital, Addis Ababa. Officials say the new facility will aim to have four runways, the Independent reported.
Ethiopian prime minister Abiy Ahmed Ali said on X: ‘Bishoftu International Airport will be the largest aviation infrastructure project in Africa’s history.’
Bishoftu International Airport began construction in Ethiopia
Members of the Ethiopian National Defense Force walk next to construction machinery at the site
The airport will have space to park 270 planes.
Construction began on January 10, 2026, following an official ceremony hosted by the Ethiopian prime minister.
It was attended by ministers, high level government officials, industry leaders, stakeholders, and Ethiopian Airlines executives.
Ethiopian Airlines Group CEO Mesfin Tasew said: ‘This is truly a proud moment for Ethiopian Airlines and for all of Africa.
‘We are embarking on a new chapter with the groundbreaking of Bishoftu International Airport that will redefine the continent’s aviation ecosystem.
‘As we celebrate 80 years of service, this project stands as yet another milestone, underscoring our commitment to shaping the future of the African air transport industry, while supporting the growing demand for our passenger and cargo services.
‘Bishoftu International Airport is a major step towards addressing the infrastructural gap in Africa and a key player in implementing the African Continental Free Trade Area (AfCFTA), and at Ethiopian we are committed to realise the completion of this project.’
Prime minister Abiy Ahmed described the day as a milestone in Ethiopia’s journey toward modernisation and prosperity.
Ethiopian Airlines Group, the largest airline in Africa, began its plans
He emphasised that the airline’s greatest strength lies in its strong corporate culture, built on giving priority to safety and security and leadership.
It also has a workforce of more than 26,000 employees.
Ethiopian Airlines operated flights to more than 160 domestic and international passenger locations.
It also has cargo destinations across five continents.
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The new airport set to be Africa’s biggest – with a $12.5 billion budget
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