Ethiopian
By Lerato Mpembe
Ethiopian Airlines and the African Development Bank (AfDB) have formalized a partnership to construct the continent’s largest airport—the Bishoftu International Airport. This ambitious project, estimated at $7.8 billion (approximately R140 billion), is set to transform Ethiopia’s aviation landscape and bolster its position as a pivotal hub in global air travel. 
A Visionary Leap in African Aviation
The memorandum of understanding (MoU) was signed on 14 March 2025, marking a significant milestone in Ethiopia’s infrastructural development. The new airport is slated to be built in Bishoftu, a town located about 45 kilometers southeast of the capital, Addis Ababa. This strategic location is expected to alleviate congestion at the existing Bole International Airport and accommodate the burgeoning demand for air travel in the region.
According to the Ethiopian Ministry of Finance, the Bishoftu International Airport aims to increase the country’s annual passenger capacity from the current 17 million to over 60 million by 2040. This substantial expansion underscores Ethiopia’s commitment to becoming a leading aviation hub in Africa and beyond.  
Strategic Partnership and Financial Commitment
The collaboration between Ethiopian Airlines and the AfDB epitomizes a shared vision for infrastructural excellence and economic growth. Ethiopian Airlines Group CEO, Mesfin Tasew, and AfDB’s Vice President for Regional Development, Integration, and Business Delivery, Nnenna Nwabufo, were the principal signatories of the agreement. While the exact financial contribution of the AfDB has not been disclosed, the bank’s investment portfolio in Ethiopia currently exceeds $1.2 billion, reflecting a robust commitment to the nation’s development. 
Finance Minister Ahmed Shide lauded the AfDB’s comprehensive support, highlighting the bank’s instrumental role in Ethiopia’s macroeconomic reforms and infrastructural projects. He emphasized that such collaborations are pivotal for driving inclusive growth and building a resilient economy. 
Economic Implications and Regional Impact
The Bishoftu International Airport is poised to be a catalyst for economic transformation in Ethiopia and the broader East African region. By enhancing passenger and cargo capacity, the airport is expected to stimulate tourism, create employment opportunities, and attract foreign investment. Moreover, it will reinforce Ethiopian Airlines’ position as Africa’s leading aviation group, enabling it to compete more effectively on the global stage.  
AfDB President Akinwumi Adesina reiterated the bank’s full commitment to supporting the airport project, recognizing it as a flagship initiative that aligns with the continent’s infrastructural development goals. He commended Ethiopia’s impressive economic performance, noting an 8.1% GDP growth over the past year, and acknowledged the rapid development of Addis Ababa under Prime Minister Abiy Ahmed’s leadership.  
Environmental and Social Considerations
The development of the Bishoftu International Airport encompasses comprehensive planning to address environmental and social factors. Authorities have secured the proposed location and are proactively working on resettlement plans for farmers currently residing on the land. This approach aims to ensure that the project proceeds with minimal disruption to local communities and adheres to sustainable development principles. 
Ethiopian Airlines CEO Mesfin Tasew has emphasized that the new airport will not only enhance connectivity but also prioritize environmentally responsible practices, contributing to Ethiopia’s broader sustainability objectives. 
Future Prospects and Global Positioning
The Bishoftu International Airport is envisioned to be a cornerstone of Ethiopia’s long-term strategic plan, Vision 2035. This roadmap aims to nearly double the airline’s fleet size from 145 to 271 aircraft and expand international destinations from 133 to 207. The plan also projects an increase in passenger traffic from 14 million in 2022 to 65 million by 2035, with a revenue target of $25 billion. The new airport is integral to achieving these ambitious goals, positioning Ethiopia as a central hub in global aviation. 
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