By Janefrances Chibuzor
Ethiopia is redefining Africa’s aviation future with the Bishoftu International Airport (BIA), a bold USD 12.5 billion greenfield development set to become the continent’s largest and most advanced aviation hub. Strategically located 40 kilometres southwest of Addis Ababa, BIA is designed to relieve the capacity pressure on Bole International Airport and propel Ethiopia into a new era of global connectivity.
Phase One, due for completion in 2030, will handle 60 million passengers annually. At full scale, BIA’s capacity will reach 110 million passengers—surpassing all existing African airports and positioning Ethiopia as the continent’s aviation capital. The airport will anchor new trade corridors, attract tourism, boost regional logistics, and serve as a major gateway linking Africa with the world.
Ethiopian Airlines Group (EAG), the project sponsor, is driving the initiative with the African Development Bank as Initial Mandated Lead Arranger, Dar Al-Handasah providing technical advisory, KPMG serving as financial advisor, and Clyde & Co offering legal guidance. EAG has released the Project Information Memorandum, Financial Model, and supporting documents to potential financiers, marking a key milestone as the project advances toward financial close. Prequalification of EPC contractors is ongoing, with bid submissions expected by mid-December 2025.
According to Mesfin Tasew, Group CEO of Ethiopian Airlines, “Bishoftu International Airport marks a historic leap in Africa’s aviation journey… I urge financiers around the globe to join us in supporting this ambitious project.”
The project will take centre stage at the Africa Investment Forum Market Days in Rabat from 26–28 November 2025, where it is expected to attract strong interest from development financiers, commercial banks, ECAs, and institutional investors.
Ambitious, strategic, and transformative, BIA is not just an airport—it is the gateway shaping Africa’s new aviation era and a defining investment opportunity for partners seeking to be part of a continental leap forward.
