Addis Ababa Bole International has been named the second-best airport in Africa, fueled by the rapid global expansion of the state carrier, Ethiopian Airlines.

The 2025 rankings, published by Vanguard, highlight how the airline’s "Vision 2035" strategy has transformed the Ethiopian capital into a primary global gateway. By leveraging its massive network to connect Africa with Asia and the Middle East, the airport has outperformed several long-established continental rivals.

While South Africa’s Cape Town International retained the top spot for its passenger experience and cleanliness, Addis Ababa was praised for its efficiency as the continent’s leading transit hub.

The top three airports in Africa for 2025:

Cape Town International (South Africa)

Addis Ababa Bole International (Ethiopia)

O.R. Tambo International (South Africa)

Analysts say the ranking reflects heavy investment in infrastructure designed to accommodate the high volume of transfer passengers brought in by Ethiopian Airlines. Johannesburg’s O.R. Tambo International followed in third place, maintaining its status as one of the continent's busiest travel hubs.

The rise of Addis Ababa underscores a shift in African aviation, where strategic airline growth is now the primary driver of airport prestige and regional connectivity.