Deputy PM Temesgen Says Ethiopia’s Bold Vision Takes Flight with Bishoftu International Airport

Addis Ababa, January 10, 2026 (FMC) – Ethiopia is advancing its bold national vision with the Bishoftu International Airport, a landmark project that, in the words of Deputy Prime Minister Temesgen Truneh, carries the country’s aviation legacy into a new era.

The construction of the 10 billion USD mega airport was officially launched today by Prime Minister Abiy Ahmed in a ceremony attended by federal and regional officials, Ethiopian Airlines executives, diplomats, and other key stakeholders. The project is set to become Africa’s largest airport and one of the nation’s flagship mega infrastructure initiatives.

In a statement shared on social media, Deputy PM Temesgen said: “Ethiopian Airlines is opening a new chapter that reinforces its 80-year legacy as Africa’s leading aviation carrier. Today marks the official launch of construction for one of the nation’s flagship Mega Projects, spearheaded by the Honorable Prime Minister: the largest airport in Africa, located in Bishoftu.”

He recalled that when Ethiopian Airlines commenced operations eight decades ago with only a handful of aircraft, its vision extended far beyond connecting Ethiopia to the world. From the outset, it aspired to elevate Africa’s pride and prestige in global aviation.

“This new airport, designed to accommodate up to 110 million passengers annually, stands as a powerful expression of Ethiopia’s bold national vision and its unwavering journey toward sustainable prosperity. It represents a historic milestone that will carry our proud aviation legacy into a new era,” he added.

Deputy PM Temesgen noted that the project exemplifies the government’s philosophy of thinking big and achieving big, positioning Ethiopia as a global aviation hub and reaffirming Africa’s rightful place in the skies.

He further stated: “This landmark development will significantly enhance Ethiopian Airlines’ global competitiveness while delivering far-reaching economic benefits, leaving a lasting green legacy for future generations. Our high-flying journey to position Ethiopia as Africa’s beacon of prosperity will continue to gain momentum across all sectors. The sky is no longer the limit—it is our starting point. Ethiopia rises—higher, stronger, and prouder.”