Ethiopian Airlines to Launch New International Airport by 2030











Addis Ababa’s Ambitious Second International GatewayEthiopia’s rapidly expanding aviation sector is preparing for a major milestone: the launch of the long-awaited Bishoftu International Airport, which is scheduled to begin handling international flights by 2030. Ethiopian Airlines Group CEO Mesfin Tasew revealed the timeline in an interview with the Ethiopian News Agency (ENA) during the celebrations of the Ethiopian New Year (2018 E.C.). The project, one of the largest infrastructure undertakings in the country’s modern history, is expected to redefine the nation’s role as a hub for African and global air transport.

Construction Timeline and PreparationsAccording to Mesfin, preparations have already been completed for the start of construction within the 2018 Ethiopian budget year. The airline has finalized preliminary work and is now moving toward securing the necessary financing for the massive project. A key step—relocating local farming communities to make space for the airport—is already underway. Housing construction for relocated farmers is in its final stages, ensuring that the project can advance without delays.

Designing a World-Class HubThe upcoming Bishoftu International Airport is planned to be among the largest and most modern airports in the world. Mesfin emphasized that the terminal design will meet the highest international standards, providing state-of-the-art facilities to accommodate Ethiopia’s growing passenger and cargo traffic. The airport is envisioned not just as a national project but as a continental aviation landmark, reinforcing Ethiopian Airlines’ status as one of Africa’s most prestigious carriers and a competitive global player.

Boost for Ethiopia’s Aviation IndustryThe addition of Bishoftu International Airport marks a significant expansion for Ethiopian Airlines, which has been rapidly increasing its global flight routes and investing in airport infrastructure. Mesfin highlighted that the new facility will not only ease congestion at Addis Ababa’s Bole International Airport but will also enable the airline to scale up operations to meet future demand.

Modernizing Bole for Domestic GrowthWhile Bishoftu International Airport is being built to handle a large share of international traffic, Bole International Airport will undergo a modernization program of its own. Once Bishoftu becomes fully operational, Bole will be upgraded to international service standards but will primarily focus on domestic flights and regional connections. This dual-airport strategy aims to create an integrated aviation network capable of supporting Ethiopia’s economic growth and regional influence.

A Message of Optimism for the New YearIn his New Year greeting, Mesfin extended best wishes for peace, love, and prosperity to all Ethiopians, as well as to Ethiopian Airlines’ employees and customers worldwide. He underscored that the Bishoftu project reflects Ethiopia’s commitment to long-term development and its ambition to remain a leading gateway between Africa and the world.

The Bishoftu International Airport, once completed, will not only transform Ethiopia’s aviation capacity but also strengthen its role as a critical transit point for international travel and trade—solidifying Addis Ababa’s reputation as the beating heart of Africa’s air transport network.