Ethiopian Airlines Begins $12.5B Project to Build Africa's Largest Airport
Key Points
- 1Construction began on the $12.5 billion Bishoftu International Airport (BIA) on January 10, 2026.
- 2Phase one is scheduled for 2030 completion, with a capacity of 60 million passengers annually.
- 3The ultimate capacity of 110 million passengers will make BIA Africa's biggest airport, surpassing current hubs like Cairo and Johannesburg.
- 4The project is necessary to relieve congestion at Addis Ababa Bole International Airport (ADD), which is nearing its 25 million passenger capacity.
The Emirates Group has officially launched construction of the Bishoftu International Airport (BIA) in Ethiopia.
This $12.5 billion airport project is positioned to become Africa's biggest airport. The groundbreaking ceremony took place on January 10, 2026, near the town of Bishoftu. This location is approximately 40-45 kilometers southeast of the capital, Addis Ababa.
A New African Aviation Mega-Hub
The new facility is designed to address a critical need for capacity. The current main gateway, Addis Ababa Bole International Airport (ADD), is nearing saturation. ADD has an expanded capacity of about 25 million passengers annually. Officials project this existing hub will reach its limit within three years.
Bishoftu International Airport is planned for phased development. Phase one is scheduled for completion by 2030. This initial phase will handle 60 million passengers annually. This capacity alone will surpass Africa's current busiest airports. When fully operational, the airport will accommodate 110 million passenger capacity.
This ultimate capacity will make BIA one of the world’s largest aviation hubs. The design includes four runways and parking for up to 270 aircraft. The state-owned carrier will use BIA as its principal hub.
Strategic and Economic Impact
Ethiopian prime minister Abiy Ahmed described the project as historic. He stated BIA will be the largest aviation infrastructure project in Africa's history. This development aligns with Ethiopia's long-term aviation strategy.
Ethiopian Airlines Group CEO Mesfin Tasew highlighted the project's broader role. He noted it addresses the significant infrastructural gap in Africa. The airport is also a key player in implementing the African Continental Free Trade Area (AfCFTA). The AfCFTA aims to boost intra-African trade and connectivity.
Financing for the $12.5 billion airport project is a mix of sources. Ethiopian Airlines plans to fund around 30% of the cost directly. The remaining capital will come from international financiers. The African Development Bank has pledged $500 million. It is also coordinating efforts to raise an additional $8.7 billion. Lenders from the Middle East, Europe, China, and the United States have shown interest.
This massive investment will strengthen the African air transport industry. It will reinforce Addis Ababa's position as a leading intercontinental transfer point. For more commercial aviation news and analysis, visit flying.flights. The new hub is expected to generate employment for more than 26,000 aviation professionals. This underscores the significant scale of the investment.
The airport's capacity for up to 270 Boeing and other aircraft is a massive logistical undertaking. The project is a major step for the entire continent. It will facilitate increased trade, tourism, and people-to-people interactions. The Bishoftu International Airport is set to redefine Africa's aviation ecosystem. This infrastructure is vital for future growth. The International Air Transport Association (IATA) recognizes such infrastructure as critical for global competitiveness.
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