Ethiopian Airlines Group has officially begun the construction of a major new aviation hub, the Bishoftu International Airport, marking a significant expansion of its operations and Africa's air transport infrastructure.
A Milestone Groundbreaking Ceremony
The official groundbreaking event for the airport was held earlier this week. The ceremony was attended by high-profile figures, including Ethiopian Prime Minister Dr. Abiy Ahmed, various government ministers, senior officials, industry leaders, and executives from the airline itself.
During the event, the airline's Group Chief Executive Officer, Mr. Mesfin Tasew, joined the Prime Minister in placing the plaque that signified the formal start of construction work. The design of the future airport was also unveiled to the public.
Vision for African Aviation and Trade
In his remarks, CEO Mesfin Tasew described the project as a proud moment for both Ethiopian Airlines and the entire continent. He framed the airport's construction as the opening of a new chapter that will redefine Africa's aviation landscape.
"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," Tasew stated. He highlighted that the development is crucial for supporting the growing demand for both passenger and cargo services.
Tasew strongly positioned Bishoftu International Airport as a strategic asset for addressing Africa's infrastructural gaps. He emphasized its potential role as a key player in implementing the African Continental Free Trade Area (AfCFTA), facilitating smoother trade and connectivity across the continent.
National Pride and Corporate Strength
Prime Minister Abiy Ahmed celebrated the day as a milestone in Ethiopia's journey toward modernization and economic prosperity. He praised Ethiopian Airlines as a profound source of national pride, not for avoiding challenges, but for its demonstrated resilience and capacity to overcome obstacles.
Ahmed attributed the airline's success to its strong corporate culture, which is built on several pillars:
- An unwavering priority on safety and security.
- Leadership driven by creativity and hard work.
- A dedicated workforce of over 26,000 employees who view the airline as their flag carrier.
- A continuous commitment to learning and building capacity.
The airline also reported the successful completion of resettlement and livelihood restoration projects for communities affected by the airport's development.
Project Scale and Timeline
Bishoftu International Airport is poised to become a transformative project for Ethiopian and pan-African aviation, boosting trade, tourism, and cultural exchanges.
The construction will be carried out in phases. The first phase is scheduled for completion by 2030, with an initial capacity to handle 60 million passengers annually. Upon full completion, the airport's capacity will expand dramatically to accommodate up to 110 million passengers each year.
