Will Zaha Hadid Architects' New Bishoftu Airport Cement Ethiopian Airlines' Global Hub Status?

The Bishoftu International Airport (BIA) construction has officially begun. Ethiopian Airlines Group, Africa’s largest carrier, held the groundbreaking ceremony on January 10, 2026. Prime Minister Abiy Ahmed Ali and CEO Mesfin Tasew attended the landmark event. The project is located about 40 kilometers southeast of Addis Ababa in Bishoftu. Authorities describe BIA as the largest aviation infrastructure project in Africa's history.

The Need for a Mega-Hub

This major Ethiopian Airlines expansion project addresses critical capacity limits. Addis Ababa Bole International Airport (Bole) is nearing its maximum throughput. Bole currently handles about 22-25 million passengers annually. The government noted Bole's capacity will be reached in the next two to three years. The new BIA is designed to become the country's primary hub.

Phase One of the Bishoftu International Airport construction is scheduled for completion by 2030. This initial phase targets an annual capacity of 60 million passengers. Once fully developed, the BIA master plan targets up to 110 million passengers annually. This capacity is more than four times that of the current Bole Airport. The total project cost is estimated at US$12.5 billion.

Design and Operational Edge

The airport's design consortium is led by Sidara and includes the renowned firm Zaha Hadid Architects. The Zaha Hadid Architects airport design features fluid, futuristic forms. The terminal is designed to achieve LEED Gold certification for sustainability.

• The first phase will include two Code 4E parallel runways.
• The full development will feature four runways and parking for 270 aircraft.
• The airport will include over 100,000 square meters of cargo facilities.

BIA offers a significant operational advantage over Bole. Its lower altitude, approximately 400 meters less than Bole, will enhance aircraft performance. This allows Ethiopian Airlines to optimize the Maximum Take-Off Weight (MTOW) of its fleet. This means less fuel is used to carry more cargo and passengers on long-range flights.

Strengthening Africa’s Global Gateway

BIA is positioned as a major Ethiopia aviation hub and logistics center. The project aims to strengthen regional and global connectivity. It will support the goals of the African Continental Free Trade Area (AfCFTA). The airport is designed to focus heavily on transfer traffic. Reports estimate 80% of passengers will be connecting to other flights. This focus is key to securing Ethiopia’s role as Africa's global gateway.

Connectivity Challenges and Opportunities

The vast scale of the project presents both opportunities and risks. The successful completion of the US$12.5 billion project is crucial. A 38-kilometer high-speed rail link will connect BIA to Addis Ababa and the existing Bole Airport. This rail link is essential for passenger accessibility and reducing congestion. The project is a major statement on African aviation infrastructure development. It underscores the commitment of Ethiopian Airlines to shaping the continent's air transport future.

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