Ethiopian Airlines has announced its plans to design and develop a Mega Airport City at Abusera in Bishoftu City, central Ethiopia.
Africa’s leading airline has signed a technical advisory and consultancy agreement with Dar Al-Handasah Consultants, a partner with world-renowned signature architects, Zaha Hadid Architects.
On completion, the state-of-the-art airport city is projected to have the capacity to serve 110 million passengers per year, four times the current capacity of Bole International Airport.
“The project will not only enhance connectivity but also drive economic growth and prioritize environmentally responsible practices in our country and beyond, reflecting the airline’s commitment to innovation and sustainability. With its exceptional capacity and world-class facilities, this new airport promises to elevate African aviation and strengthen partnerships, marking a significant advancement for the region’s air travel infrastructure,” comments Ethiopian Airlines’ CEO, Mesfin Tasew.
“We are privileged to be collaborating with Ethiopian Airlines on this visionary new airport, which will provide vital global air connectivity, accelerate economic growth in Ethiopia, and elevate Ethiopian Airlines into Africa’s most strategic and most competitive aviation group,” says Dar’s Director of Operations in Ethiopia Tariq Al-Qanni.
The first phase, scheduled for completion in 2029, is set to position Ethiopia as a leading global gateway to Africa with a capacity to handle 60 million passengers. The Mega Airport City will feature a 1.1 million square metre terminal (including passenger facilities), 126 190m2 of airline support facilities, and over 100 000m2 of cargo and airport support facilities. It will also include an associated airfield and other essential airport infrastructure.
The new airport will be positioned at a lower elevation compared to the current primary hub, Addis Ababa. The architectural team will incorporate elements of Ethiopian heritage to establish a new emblematic structure for the nation – a people-centric, intuitive airport characterized by sustainability, resilience, and future-readiness.
