Ethiopian Airlines launches the construction of Bishoftu International, Africa’s biggest airport

Ethiopian Airlines Group, Africa’s largest and a fast-growing carrier, has begun construction of what is set to become the continent’s largest airport, a transformative infrastructure project designed to position Ethiopia as a major aviation hub. The new Bishoftu International Airport (BIA) is being built about 40 kilometers south of Addis Ababa, near the city of Bishoftu. It is due to become Africa’s truly global air transport hub.

The project was officially launched on January 10, 2026, when Ethiopian Prime Minister Abiy Ahmed Ali laid the cornerstone at a groundbreaking ceremony. Calling it the most ambitious aviation project in Africa’s history, Abiy said the new airport will have more than four times the capacity of Addis Ababa’s existing Bole International Airport, which is expected to reach its limits within the next two to three years.

Phase One of Bishoftu International Airport is scheduled to handle 60 million passengers annually. Once fully developed, the airport will be able to serve up to 110 million passengers a year, supported by four runways and parking stands for 270 aircraft. Chinese companies will be in charge of the construction.

The total investment is estimated at US$12.5 billion, in line with International Air Transport Association (IATA) forecasts that predict more than 200 percent growth in air travel demand across East Africa over the next decade.

Designed by Zaha Hadid Architects, the airport will serve as the primary hub for Ethiopian Airlines and is tailored to the carrier’s long-term operational and passenger growth needs. The design places a strong emphasis on transfer traffic, with up to 80 percent of passengers expected to transit through the airport without entering Ethiopia. To support this, BIA will feature extensive amenities, including a 350-room airside hotel, diverse dining and entertainment options, and landscaped gardens and courtyards for relaxation.

Aesthetically unique and environment-friendly

Architecturally, the terminal draws inspiration from Ethiopia’s geography and cultural diversity. Each pier will reflect different regions of the country through distinctive interior materials and colors. A central spine, inspired by the Great Rift Valley that runs near Bishoftu, will connect the terminal’s main facilities, reducing walking distances and simplifying passenger transfers.

Operationally, the airport’s lower elevation—nearly 400 meters below Addis Ababa’s current airport—combined with longer runways, will improve aircraft performance. This will allow Ethiopian Airlines to operate long-haul, non-stop flights more efficiently, carrying more passengers and cargo while using less fuel.

Targeted to open its first phase in 2030, Bishoftu International Airport will be developed in stages. It is designed to achieve LEED Gold certification, incorporating natural ventilation, solar shading, on-site renewable energy generation, and advanced water management systems. A high-speed rail link will connect the airport to central Addis Ababa and Bole Airport, anchoring a new regional transport network and supporting Ethiopian Airlines’ long-term “Vision 2035” growth strategy.