Finance Minister: Ethiopia’s Mega Airport Project Symbolizes Africa’s Future Confidence

Addis Ababa, September 16, 2025 (FMC) – Ethiopia’s new mega international airport project near Bishoftu is more than a national undertaking—it is a milestone for the entire African continent, reflecting confidence in Africa’s future growth and potential, Finance Minister Ahmed Shide said today.

Speaking during a panel discussion on the project, the Minister described the airport as a key component of Ethiopia’s broader infrastructure vision, which aims to drive economic growth, strengthen global connectivity, and promote sustainable development.

Ahmed underscored that the new international airport embodies confidence in Africa’s future and is central to Ethiopia’s long-term strategy. He highlighted its role as a catalyst for socioeconomic transformation, enhanced connectivity, regional development, continental integration, and tourism.

Located 40 kilometers southeast of Addis Ababa, the mega facility is designed to handle up to 60 million passengers annually. It is expected to ease congestion at Addis Ababa Bole International Airport, while positioning Ethiopia as one of Africa’s most important aviation hubs.

The airport will serve as the primary hub for Ethiopian Airlines, which currently connects to more than 140 international destinations. To ensure seamless operations, Ahmed revealed that a dedicated high-speed rail line will link the new airport with Bole International Airport, facilitating smooth transfers and operational efficiency.

Citing International Air Transport Association (IATA) forecasts, the Minister noted that Africa’s air passenger traffic is projected to double over the next 15 years. With its central location and the proven strength of Ethiopian Airlines, Ethiopia is well placed to capitalize on this growth, he stressed.

Ahmed also emphasized the project’s commitment to high environmental and social standards, including eco-friendly construction, energy-efficient terminals, and responsible waste management. He drew a parallel with the Grand Ethiopian Renaissance Dam, describing both as examples of Ethiopia’s determination to deliver large-scale, transformative infrastructure projects.

“The new airport will build on this legacy, boosting operational excellence and connectivity across Africa,” the Minister remarked, adding that the project reflects a shared confidence in a prosperous future not only for Ethiopia but for the continent as a whole.

Ethiopian Airlines Group CEO Mesfin Tasew also underlined the airline’s central role in advancing connectivity within Africa and beyond. He noted that Bole International Airport has already reached its designed capacity of 25 million passengers annually and is expected to exceed that limit soon.

Mesfin said the new mega airport would meet growing demand and called for partnerships with both local and international investors to support the initiative, describing it as a transformative project built on trust and shared vision.