The African Development Bank (AfDB) has committed to spearheading the financing of the new Bishoftu International Airport in Ethiopia a $7.8 billion mega infrastructure project poised to become the largest airport on the continent.
A ceremonial signing is scheduled for August 11, 2025, at the Skylight Hotel in Addis Ababa. Ethiopian Prime Minister Abiy Ahmed and AfDB President Akinwumi Adesina will officiate the event, alongside senior officials from Ethiopian Airlines and other dignitaries.
AfDB will serve as the Mandated Lead Arranger for the project, coordinating both public and private sector financing. In a statement to Ethio Negari, the Bank underscored its “catalytic role in delivering transformational infrastructure” and aligning resources to Africa’s development priorities.
Bishoftu International Airport
The new airport will be located in Abusera, about 40 kilometers south of Addis Ababa. Phase one will accommodate 60 million passengers annually, eventually expanding to 110 million making it Africa’s busiest air hub. Construction is expected to begin in late 2025.
Ethiopian Airlines CEO Mesfin Tasew confirmed the new airport will replace Bole International Airport, which has a current capacity of 25 million passengers. The facility will allow simultaneous takeoffs and landings on four runways and feature parking for up to 270 aircraft. It will also be linked to the capital via high-speed rail and a new expressway.
The project, designed by Dar Al-Handasah Consultants and Zaha Hadid Architects, aligns with Ethiopian Airlines’ Vision 2035 strategy and the African Union’s Agenda 2063, promoting regional integration and connectivity.
In FY 2024/25, Ethiopian Airlines generated $7.6 billion in revenue and carried 19 million passengers, cementing its role as Africa’s leading airline. The new airport is expected to further elevate Ethiopia’s global aviation stature.