The new Bishoftu International Airport is set to reshape Africa’s aviation landscape. Ethiopian Airlines unveiled the airport design and highlighted the successful completion of resettlement and livelihood restoration for affected communities. A commemorative plaque was placed by Prime Minister Dr. Abiy Ahmed and Ethiopian Airlines CEO Mesfin Tasew, signalling the start of a project expected to transform passenger and cargo travel across the continent.

Speaking at the event, Mr. Tasew said: “This is a proud moment for Ethiopian Airlines and for all of Africa. Bishoftu International Airport is a major step toward addressing Africa’s infrastructural gap and a key player in implementing the African Continental Free Trade Area. We are committed to completing this project while supporting the growing demand for our passenger and cargo services.”

Prime Minister Dr. Abiy Ahmed described the occasion as a milestone in Ethiopia’s journey toward modernization, emphasising the airline’s resilience, innovative culture, and workforce of over 26,000 employees as core to its success.

Phase One of the airport project is expected to be completed by 2030, with an annual capacity of 60 million passengers. Once fully operational, Bishoftu International Airport will be able to accommodate up to 110 million passengers, strengthening trade, tourism, and people-to-people connections across Africa and beyond.

Ethiopian Airlines, operating flights to over 160 destinations on five continents, continues to be Africa’s aviation leader, leveraging modern aircraft such as the Boeing 787, Airbus A350, and De Havilland Q400. Its multi-hub strategy across Africa and commitment to sustainability and passenger comfort underpin its Vision 2035 plan to rank among the world’s top 20 aviation groups.