Ethiopian Airlines and AfDB to collaborate on new airport project

The African Development Bank (AfDB) and Ethiopian Airlines Group have signed a letter of intent (LoI) to collaborate on the development of Ethiopia’s ambitious Abusera International Airport project. Valued at US$7.8 billion, the project aims to boost passenger and cargo capacity, strengthen Ethiopia’s role as a leading aviation hub in Africa, and support regional economic development.

The signing ceremony took place at the AfDB headquarters in Abidjan on March 14, with Ethiopian Airlines CEO Mesfin Tasew Bekele and AfDB Vice President Nnenna Nwabufo formalising the agreement. The Ethiopian delegation, led by Finance Minister Ahmed Shide, included senior officials from the airline and the Ministry of Finance, highlighting the government’s strong backing for the project.

The new airport will be constructed in Bishoftu, approximately 40 km from Addis Ababa’s current Bole International Airport, which is nearing its annual capacity of 25 million passengers. The Abusera International Airport is designed to complement Bole’s operations and accommodate the rapidly growing demand for air travel and cargo services in the region.

Recognised as one of the AfDB’s priority areas, multinational transport infrastructure is essential for fostering regional integration and enhancing connectivity. The Abusera Airport will play a critical role in improving intra-African links and strengthening Ethiopia’s position as a key gateway between Africa and the rest of the world.

Ethiopian Airlines, Africa’s largest and most successful carrier, views the new airport as a cornerstone of its 2035 growth strategy. This plan focuses on expanding its global network, investing in infrastructure, and developing human capital to maintain its competitive edge. In the last fiscal year ending June 30, 2024, the airline reported record revenues of US$7.02 billion, a 14% increase year-on-year, and transported 17.1 million passengers — 13.4 million on international routes and 3.7 million domestically.

The African Development Bank reaffirmed its commitment to supporting this transformative project, recognising Ethiopian Airlines as a symbol of African excellence and resilience. The Abusera International Airport is expected to reinforce Ethiopia’s aviation leadership, enhance Africa’s global connectivity, and significantly contribute to the continent’s economic integration.