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Ethiopian Airlines and the African Development Bank (AfDB) have announced a groundbreaking partnership to construct the largest airport in Africa, a $7.8 billion project that is set to transform Ethiopia’s aviation landscape. The new Bishoftu International Airport, located approximately 40 kilometers southeast of Addis Ababa, will significantly expand Ethiopia’s passenger and cargo capacity, reinforcing the country’s position as a leading aviation hub on the continent.
The partnership was formalized through a Letter of Intent signed by Ethiopian Airlines CEO Mesfin Tasew and AfDB Vice President Nnenna Nwabufo during a ceremony held at the bank’s headquarters in Abidjan. Ethiopia’s Finance Minister Ahmed Shide, along with other senior officials, attended the event, underscoring the government’s strong backing for the project. The airport is expected to complement the existing Addis Ababa Bole International Airport, which has already exceeded its operational capacity due to the rapid growth of Ethiopian Airlines.
The Bishoftu International Airport is designed to handle over 60 million passengers annually by 2040, a significant increase from the current capacity of 17 million at Bole International Airport. This ambitious project aligns with Ethiopia’s broader economic reform agenda and its vision to become a global aviation hub. The new airport will not only enhance passenger and cargo transport but also support aviation training, maintenance, and ground handling services, further solidifying Ethiopian Airlines’ position as Africa’s leading carrier.
AfDB President Dr. Akinwumi Adesina praised Ethiopia’s strong economic performance and its commitment to transformative infrastructure projects. “This airport is a flagship project for Africa, showcasing the continent’s potential for innovation and growth. The African Development Bank is fully committed to supporting Ethiopia in achieving its vision for sustainable development and regional integration,” Adesina stated.
The economic benefits of the Bishoftu International Airport are expected to be far-reaching. The project will create thousands of jobs during its construction and operational phases, boosting employment in sectors such as aviation, construction, hospitality, and retail. Additionally, the increased passenger and cargo capacity will facilitate trade, attract foreign investment, and promote tourism, contributing to Ethiopia’s GDP growth.
Ethiopian Airlines, Africa’s largest and most successful carrier, views the new airport as a cornerstone of its 2035 growth strategy. The airline has been expanding its global network, modernizing its fleet, and diversifying its services to maintain its competitive edge. In the last fiscal year, Ethiopian Airlines reported record revenues of $7.02 billion, transporting over 17 million passengers. The new airport will enable the airline to meet the growing demand for air travel and strengthen its role as a key player in global aviation.
Despite the optimism surrounding the project, challenges remain. The relocation of communities near the construction site and the environmental impact of the project have raised concerns. Ethiopian authorities have pledged to address these issues through transparent and inclusive processes, ensuring that affected communities are adequately compensated and supported.
The Bishoftu International Airport project has also drawn international attention, with industry analysts highlighting its potential to reshape Africa’s aviation sector. By enhancing connectivity between Africa and the rest of the world, the airport is expected to play a pivotal role in regional integration and economic development.
As Ethiopia moves forward with this transformative project, the partnership between Ethiopian Airlines and the AfDB serves as a testament to the power of collaboration in driving progress. The Bishoftu International Airport is not just an infrastructure project; it is a symbol of Ethiopia’s ambition and resilience, paving the way for a brighter future for the nation and the continent.