Ethiopian Airlines to Build Africa’s Largest Airport: A Vision for 2035

Ethiopian Airlines has signed a deal for the design of a new four-runway airport near Bishoftu, 45 km from Addis Ababa, set to be Africa's largest when completed in 2029. The Absera Mega Airport will have the capacity to handle 100 million passengers annually and parking for 270 aircraft. As part of the airline's Vision 2035 strategy, the project aims to position Ethiopian Airlines as Africa's leading carrier and boost Addis Ababa's status as a key aviation hub

AVIATION PROJECTS

Trevor Gozhi

8/12/20241 min read

The new airport, dubbed "Absera Mega Airport," is part of Ethiopian Airlines' ambitious Vision 2035 strategy, which aims to position the airline as the leading carrier in Africa and one of the top 20 globally. The airport will not only support Ethiopian Airlines' growth but also enhance Addis Ababa's status as a key aviation hub on the continent, potentially rivaling other major global airports.

Economic and Infrastructure Impact

The project is expected to significantly boost the local economy, creating thousands of jobs during construction and even more once operational. The surrounding areas of Bishoftu will likely see rapid development, with investments pouring into hospitality, retail, and other related sectors. Additionally, the new airport is set to alleviate congestion at the existing Bole International Airport, which has been struggling to keep up with the increasing passenger numbers.

Strategic Importance

Strategically, the Absera Mega Airport is poised to serve as a gateway for international trade and tourism, facilitating Ethiopia's broader economic goals. The airport's design, which includes state-of-the-art facilities and sustainable practices, will cater to the needs of modern aviation, making it a critical piece of infrastructure for the region. The inclusion of cargo facilities will further enhance Ethiopia's role in the global supply chain, particularly for perishable goods like flowers and fresh produce.

Technological Innovations

Ethiopian Airlines plans to integrate cutting-edge technology into the airport's operations. This includes the latest in airport security, automated check-in processes, and advanced air traffic management systems, ensuring efficient handling of the projected passenger and aircraft volumes. The airline's commitment to sustainability will also be reflected in the airport's design, with plans for energy-efficient buildings, water conservation measures, and the use of renewable energy sources.