Ethiopian Airlines, a dominant force in African aviation and the continent’s leading carrier, is set to commence the initial construction phase of its colossal new airport near Bishoftu. This project marks a significant expansion for the airline, which boasts a history spanning over 78 years, serving 142 international destinations with a modern fleet of over 150 aircraft.

The massive Bishoftu Airport project will cover 3,500 hectares of land. To finance this major undertaking, the airline has secured a $7.8 billion agreement with the African Development Bank and is concurrently ordering one hundred new aircraft to bolster its fleet.

Designed to be a premier African hub, the facility's infrastructure will include a passenger terminal sprawling over 1.1 million square kilometers and a dedicated cargo service area covering 100,000 square kilometers.

Furthermore, it will incorporate airline support facilities, agricultural product processing centers, and commercial establishments spanning an additional 126,190 square kilometers.

Strategically located near Bishoftu, the new airport will be seamlessly connected to the existing Addis Ababa Bole International Airport via a high-speed rail transport service, ensuring efficient connectivity. The initial phase of this extensive construction project is projected to be completed within four years.