Prime Minister Abiy Launches Construction of Bishoftu International Airport

Addis Ababa, January 10, 2026 (FMC) – Prime Minister Abiy Ahmed this morning laid the cornerstone for the construction of Bishoftu International Airport, a landmark national project designed to sustain Ethiopia’s rapid aviation growth and support the expanding global operations of Ethiopian Airlines.

In a message shared on his social media platforms, the Premier stated that a new mega hub is being developed alongside Addis Ababa Bole International Airport, which is nearing its expanded handling capacity of 25 million passengers annually.
“This multi-airport strategy aims to future-proof Ethiopia’s role as Africa’s leading air transport gateway,” he said.

Prime Minister Abiy stressed that Bishoftu International Airport will be “the largest aviation infrastructure project in Africa’s history.” He noted that the initiative aligns with Ethiopia’s national economic reforms, industrialization agenda, and long-term aviation strategy.

“The project will strengthen Ethiopian Airlines’ global competitiveness, enhance Africa’s connectivity under the AfCFTA framework, expand trade and tourism corridors, and position Ethiopia as a premier intercontinental hub,” he underscored.

The airport will be located about 40 kilometers southeast of Addis Ababa at an altitude of 1,910 meters, a setting that offers optimal conditions for aircraft performance and efficient handling of both origin–destination and transit passengers. Its proximity to the capital is also expected to ensure seamless integration with Ethiopia’s existing aviation ecosystem.

According to the Prime Minister, the first phase of Bishoftu International Airport is designed to handle 60 million passengers per year, while its master plan capacity is projected to reach 110 million annually once fully completed — placing Ethiopia among the world’s top aviation hubs.