Ethiopian Airlines Group has officially commenced construction of Bishoftu International Airport, marking a major milestone in Africa’s aviation and infrastructure development. Construction began on January 10, 2026, following a groundbreaking ceremony attended by top government officials, industry leaders, and stakeholders.
The historic event was graced by the Prime Minister of the Federal Democratic Republic of Ethiopia, His Excellency Dr. Abiy Ahmed, alongside ministers, high-level government officials, and Ethiopian Airlines executives, including the Group Chief Executive Officer, Mr. Mesfin Tasew.
During the ceremony, Ethiopian Airlines unveiled the design of the new airport and announced the successful completion of the resettlement and livelihood restoration programme for communities affected by the project. Prime Minister Abiy Ahmed, senior government officials, and Mr. Tasew jointly placed the commemorative plaque to formally signal the start of construction.
Speaking at the event, Mr. Tasew described the project as a landmark achievement for both Ethiopian Airlines and the African continent.
“This is truly a proud moment for Ethiopian Airlines and for all of Africa. We are embarking on a new chapter with the groundbreaking of Bishoftu International Airport that will redefine the continent’s aviation ecosystem,” he said.
He noted that as Ethiopian Airlines marks 80 years of service, the project represents a significant milestone that underscores the carrier’s commitment to shaping the future of African air transport. According to him, the new airport will help address critical infrastructure gaps across the continent and support the implementation of the African Continental Free Trade Area (AfCFTA) by enhancing passenger and cargo connectivity.
In his remarks, Prime Minister Abiy Ahmed described the commencement of the project as a milestone in Ethiopia’s journey toward modernization and shared prosperity. He praised Ethiopian Airlines as a symbol of national pride, citing its resilience, leadership, and pioneering role in Africa’s aviation sector.
The Prime Minister attributed the airline’s success to its strong corporate culture, which prioritises safety and security, encourages creativity and hard work, and is driven by a workforce of over 26,000 employees committed to continuous learning and capacity building.
Bishoftu International Airport is expected to play a transformative role in facilitating trade, tourism, and people-to-people connections within Africa and globally. Phase One of the project is scheduled for completion by 2030 and will have the capacity to handle 60 million passengers annually. Upon full completion, the airport is projected to accommodate up to 110 million passengers per year.
The project positions Ethiopia and Ethiopian Airlines at the forefront of Africa’s aviation growth, reinforcing the country’s status as a major continental and global air transport hub.
