Have you heard that work has officially begun on Africa’s largest airport?
I recently noticed several social media posts highlighting Ethiopia’s upcoming Bishoftu International Airport.
Led by the state-owned Ethiopian Airlines, this will replace Bole International Airport, which is currently capacity-constrained.
When did construction begin?
According to a press statement released by the Ethiopian Airlines Group, the largest airline in Africa, construction officially commenced on January 10, 2026.
The event was attended by His Excellency Dr Abiy Ahmed, Prime Minister of the Federal Democratic Republic of Ethiopia, alongside ministers, senior government officials, industry leaders and key stakeholders.
Reflecting on the groundbreaking ceremony, Ethiopian Airlines Group CEO, Mesfin Tasew, remarked: “This is truly a proud moment for Ethiopian Airlines and for all of Africa. We are embarking on a new chapter with the groundbreaking of Bishoftu International Airport that will redefine the continent’s aviation ecosystem.
“As we celebrate 80 years of service, this project stands as yet another milestone, underscoring our commitment to shaping the future of the African air transport industry, while supporting the growing demand for our passenger and cargo services.
“Bishoftu International Airport is a major step towards addressing the infrastructural gap in Africa and a key player in implementing the African Continental Free Trade Area (AfCFTA), and at Ethiopian, we are committed to realising the completion of this project.”
