Ethiopia’s Mega Airport: A Gateway to the Future

Ethiopia is embarking on one of Africa’s most ambitious infrastructure projects with plans to construct the Abusera Mega Airport City near Bishoftu, approximately 40 kilometers southeast of Addis Ababa. This $6 billion development is a central pillar of the nation’s Vision 2035 strategy, aiming to transform Ethiopia into a premier global aviation hub.

Once complete, Abusera will be among the largest airports on the continent, designed to handle up to 110 million passengers annually—a dramatic leap from the current 25 million-passenger capacity at Bole International Airport, which is already operating beyond its limits. The construction will unfold in phases, with the first phase targeted for completion by 2029. This phase alone will accommodate 60 million passengers annually and include four runways, 270 aircraft parking stands, and an expansive terminal spanning 1.1 million square meters.

Beyond passenger services, the airport will feature over 126,000 square meters for airline support and more than 100,000 square meters for cargo operations, strengthening Ethiopia’s role in global trade and logistics. The facility will also integrate modern, eco-friendly design principles, including renewable energy generation, rainwater harvesting systems, and natural ventilation to minimize its environmental footprint.

Transport connectivity is a priority, with plans for an express railway linking the airport to Addis Ababa, ensuring swift movement of passengers and freight. This corridor is expected to foster economic development and stimulate growth in surrounding regions.

The Abusera Mega Airport is more than just infrastructure—it represents a strategic investment in Ethiopia’s economic future. By expanding capacity and enhancing global connectivity, the project will provide Ethiopian Airlines—a carrier already serving over 17 million passengers annually—with the means to grow its international presence. It is also expected to create tens of thousands of jobs, support tourism, and strengthen trade links between Africa, Asia, and Europe.

With its vast scale, cutting-edge facilities, and sustainable approach, the Abusera Mega Airport stands as a bold symbol of Ethiopia’s commitment to innovation, connectivity, and economic progress—poised to redefine African aviation for decades to come.