Ethiopian Airlines Group has announced the official construction commencement of Bishoftu International Airport.
Construction has begun today, January 10, 2026, following an official groundbreaking ceremony.
The historic event was graced by His Excellency Dr Abiy Ahmed, the Prime Minister of the Federal Democratic Republic of Ethiopia, ministers, high-level government officials, industry leaders, stakeholders, and Ethiopian Airlines executives.
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.
F.D.R.E Prime Minister, His Excellency Dr Abiy Ahmed, alongside high-level government officials, and Ethiopian Airlines Group CEO, Mr Mesfin Tasew, placed the plaque marking the official commencement of the construction.
Mr Mesfin Tasew, Ethiopian Airlines Group CEO, remarked: “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 realising the completion of this project.”
In his remarks, Prime Minister Dr Abiy Ahmed 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.
