On Saturday 10 January 2026, Ethiopian Airlines Group officially commenced construction of Bishoftu International Airport, which the airline stated stands as a defining project for both Ethiopia and African aviation, facilitating trade, tourism, and people-to-people interactions within Africa and beyond. Phase one of the project is expected to be completed by 2030 to accommodate 60 million passengers annually and when fully completed it will have the capacity to handle 110 million passengers.

Reflecting on the recent groundbreaking ceremony, Ethiopian Airlines Group CEO, Mesfin Tasew remarked that, “This is truly a proud moment for Ethiopian Airlines and for all of Africa. We are embarking on a new chapter with the groundbreaking of Bishoftu International Airport that will redefine the continent’s aviation ecosystem. As we celebrate 80 years of service, this project stands as yet another milestone, underscoring our commitment to shaping the future of the African air transport industry, while supporting the growing demand for our passenger and cargo services. Bishoftu International Airport is a major step towards addressing the infrastructural gap in Africa and a key player in implementing the African Continental Free Trade Area (AfCFTA), and at Ethiopian we are committed to realise the completion of this project.” 

The groundbreaking event this past weekend was attended by Abiy Ahmed, the prime minister of the Ethiopia, ministers, high level government officials, industry leaders, stakeholders, and Ethiopian Airlines executives. 

At the event Ethiopian also unveiled the airport’s design and highlighted the successful completion of the resettlement and livelihood restoration project for the affected communities of the project area. Prime minister Ahmed alongside government officials, and the Ethiopian Airlines Group CEO placed the plaque marking the official commencement of the construction. 

In his remarks, the prime minister described the day as a milestone in Ethiopia’s journey toward modernisation and prosperity. He noted that Ethiopian Airlines is a source of national pride, not because it has been free of challenges, but because of its resilience, its ability to overcome obstacles, and its role as a trailblazer for Africa.