Ethiopia is taking a bold step toward reshaping Africa’s aviation future with the development of the Bishoftu International Airport (BIA), a flagship greenfield project designed to serve not only Ethiopia but the broader African region. Positioned approximately 40 kilometres southwest of Addis Ababa, the new airport is being developed as a solution to increasing traffic pressures at Addis Ababa Bole International Airport, while elevating Ethiopia’s status in both regional and global aviation.

BIA will be built in phases to align capacity with projected growth. Phase one, valued at around USD 12.5 billion, is scheduled for completion in 2030 and will be capable of accommodating up to 60 million passengers per year. Once fully developed, the airport is expected to process 110 million passengers annually, positioning it as the largest airport in Africa and a catalyst for trade, connectivity, tourism and investment.

“Bishoftu International Airport marks a historic leap in Africa’s aviation journey, significantly enhancing trade, tourism, and business across the continent and beyond,” said Mr. Mesfin Tasew, Group CEO of Ethiopian Airlines. “With its cutting-edge technology, sustainable design, and unparalleled connectivity, the new airport positions Ethiopia to become the aviation capital of Africa, serving as a major gateway connecting the continent to the world. I urge financers around the globe to join us in supporting this ambitious project and to take part in this momentous milestone.”

Ethiopian Airlines Group (EAG), the project sponsor, is leading the development with support from the African Development Bank (AfDB), appointed as Initial Mandated Lead Arranger (IMLA). Dar Al-Handasah Consultants (Dar) and KPMG are serving as technical and financial advisors respectively, with Clyde & Co appointed as legal advisors.

Momentum continues to build as EAG recently released the Project Information Memorandum, Financial Model and supporting documents to potential lenders, marking significant progress toward financial closure. Prequalification processes for EPC contractors are underway, with bid submissions expected by mid-December 2025 – signalling a shift from planning to procurement and implementation.

The project will feature visibly at the Africa Investment Forum (AIF) Market Days in Rabat, Morocco, from 26–28 November 2025, where it is expected to draw interest from development financiers, commercial banks, ECAs and institutional investors. With its scale, ambition and position, Bishoftu International Airport stands as a defining aviation and infrastructure achievement for Ethiopia and a powerful symbol of Africa’s transformation.