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Ethiopian Airlines Group has taken a major step toward building what could become Africa’s largest airport by appointing the African Development Bank (AfDB) as the mandated lead arranger to secure $8 billion in debt financing for the new Bishoftu International Airport. The $10 billion mega project is expected to turn Ethiopia into one of the world’s top aviation hubs, attracting more global passengers, boosting cargo capacity, and driving economic growth.
The airport will be located in Abusera, Bishoftu, about 40 kilometers southeast of Ethiopia’s capital city, Addis Ababa. The choice of location followed years of feasibility studies and a master plan that was completed in 2022. Ethiopian authorities say this new facility is crucial to meet the country’s rapidly growing air traffic needs.
Bole International Airport, the country’s current main gateway, handled about 19 million passengers in the fiscal year ending June 30, 2025, edging closer to its expanded capacity of 25 million passengers. Passenger forecasts indicate that Ethiopia could see up to 60 million travelers annually by 2040—more than double Bole’s maximum capacity. Industry experts say without a new airport, the country could lose its competitive edge as an aviation hub.
The first phase of Bishoftu International Airport is scheduled to open in November 2029. It will feature two parallel runways and a 775,000 square meter passenger terminal designed to handle 60 million passengers annually, alongside cargo facilities with the capacity to process 2.1 million tons per year. When fully developed, the airport will expand to four parallel runways and 1.5 million square meters of terminal space, with the ability to serve up to 110 million passengers and 3.73 million tons of cargo yearly—placing it among the world’s largest in scale and capacity.
In addition to its aviation facilities, the project will include an “Airport City,” which will host hotels, business parks, leisure centers, and other commercial developments. This is expected to stimulate local economic activity, create jobs, and attract investment in surrounding areas. The Ethiopian government believes the airport will be a catalyst for the country’s tourism, logistics, and hospitality sectors, generating significant foreign exchange earnings.
According to Ethiopian Airlines Group Chief Executive Officer Mesfin Tasew, partnering with the AfDB as the lead arranger ensures access to a diverse pool of international lenders and investors, providing the financial muscle needed for such a massive undertaking. Tasew said the project is not just about meeting current demand but about positioning Ethiopia as a major connector between Africa, Asia, Europe, and the Americas.
The African Development Bank has expressed strong support for the project, calling it a game-changer for Africa’s aviation sector. AfDB officials note that improved infrastructure will make it easier for African airlines to compete globally, reduce dependency on foreign carriers, and enhance intra-African connectivity under the African Continental Free Trade Area (AfCFTA).
Construction will be carried out in phases to allow for operational efficiency and better financial management. Experts say the long-term benefits could outweigh the massive cost, especially if Ethiopia manages to capture a larger share of the booming African aviation market.
Bishoftu International Airport is expected to rival some of the world’s busiest airports and bring Ethiopia closer to its goal of becoming one of the top 20 aviation hubs by 2035. With its strategic location, ambitious design, and significant international backing, the project is being closely watched across Africa and beyond.
