Ethiopia has announced plans to develop Bishoftu International Airport (BIA), a massive new aviation hub designed to support the country’s fast-growing air transport sector and the expanding global network of Ethiopian Airlines.
Prime Minister Abiy Ahmed said the new airport, to be developed alongside Addis Ababa Bole International Airport, will anchor Ethiopia’s multi-airport strategy as Bole nears its expanded capacity of 25 million passengers annually. The approach aims to future-proof Ethiopia’s position as Africa’s leading aviation gateway.
Bishoftu International Airport, located about 40 kilometres southeast of Addis Ababa, will be the largest aviation infrastructure project in Africa’s history.
According to the Prime Minister, the project aligns with Ethiopia’s national economic reforms, industrialisation agenda, and long-term aviation strategy.
Once completed, the airport is expected to boost Ethiopian Airlines’ global competitiveness, enhance continental connectivity under the African Continental Free Trade Area (AfCFTA), and expand trade and tourism corridors across Africa and beyond.
The airport’s first phase will have a capacity of 60 million passengers annually, with a long-term master plan targeting 110 million passengers per year.
Its location at an altitude of 1,910 metres offers optimal aircraft performance while ensuring efficient handling of both transit and origin-destination passengers.
Prime Minister Abiy said the project will position Ethiopia among the world’s top intercontinental aviation hubs, reinforcing its strategic role in global air transport.
