Home » AIRLINE NEWS » Bishoftu International Airport: A New Gateway to Ethiopia’s Tourism Growth
Published on
January 13, 2026
Ethiopia is set to redefine its place on the African tourism map with the construction of the Bishoftu International Airport. Located near Addis Ababa, this ambitious project will play a pivotal role in boosting Ethiopia’s tourism industry by enhancing connectivity and providing modern travel facilities. Expected to be the largest airport in Africa once completed, Bishoftu International Airport will support Ethiopia’s vision of becoming a leading global tourism hub.
The groundbreaking ceremony, held on January 10, 2026, marked the official start of this monumental project. Spearheaded by Ethiopian Airlines, with support from the Ethiopian government, the airport aims to ease congestion at Addis Ababa’s Bole International Airport while significantly improving the overall travel experience for both tourists and local passengers. The new airport will not only serve as a major gateway for international travelers but will also open up new possibilities for regional connections.
A Key to Unlocking Ethiopia’s Tourism Potential
Ethiopia is renowned for its rich cultural heritage, stunning landscapes, and historical landmarks, including Lalibela, Axum, and the Simien Mountains. However, despite the country’s potential as a tourism destination, the limited capacity of Bole International Airport has posed a challenge. Bishoftu International Airport is set to address this issue by increasing passenger capacity, making it easier for tourists to visit Ethiopia.
The new airport will initially handle approximately 60 million passengers annually, with future projections to reach over 110 million passengers once fully operational. This increase in capacity will make it possible to handle the growing number of tourists interested in exploring Ethiopia’s diverse attractions. It will also facilitate better regional and international connectivity, which is essential for both leisure and business tourism.
In addition to easing congestion at Bole International Airport, Bishoftu International Airport will provide enhanced services, including modern terminals, cargo handling, and maintenance facilities, all of which will support the local economy. Ethiopian Airlines, as the operator, will also use the airport to expand its network, offering more direct flights from various countries, which will be a major benefit for global tourists visiting Ethiopia.
Economic Impact and Job Creation
One of the most significant benefits of the Bishoftu International Airport project is its potential to drive economic growth. The Ethiopian government has emphasized the importance of the airport in creating thousands of jobs, not just during construction, but also in the long term. Local communities surrounding the airport will also benefit from the project, with opportunities in hospitality, transportation, retail, and other service sectors.
The airport will boost local businesses by attracting more international tourists, who will spend on accommodation, tours, restaurants, and souvenirs. The Ministry of Culture and Tourism has already begun collaborating with local tour operators to ensure they can capitalize on the anticipated increase in tourist arrivals. The availability of better air connections will also make it easier for tour operators to organize trips to Ethiopia’s lesser-known attractions, such as the Danakil Depression and Omo Valley.
Moreover, as Ethiopia’s largest tourism infrastructure project, Bishoftu International Airport will help the country attract large-scale international conferences, events, and expos, fostering a new dimension of business tourism. This is especially important as the government has also been focusing on increasing its share of the global MICE (Meetings, Incentives, Conferences, and Exhibitions) market.
Sustainability and Modernization
Ethiopia is committed to ensuring that Bishoftu International Airport is built with sustainability in mind. The airport will feature eco-friendly design principles, with energy-efficient systems, water-saving technologies, and green spaces incorporated throughout the complex. These sustainability efforts are expected to enhance the airport’s reputation as a modern and environmentally responsible destination, attracting eco-conscious tourists.
The airport will also incorporate cutting-edge technology to enhance the passenger experience, with features such as self-check-in kiosks, modern baggage handling systems, and free Wi-Fi throughout the terminals. These improvements will streamline the travel experience, making Ethiopia more accessible and appealing to international visitors.
The Path Ahead for Ethiopian Tourism
Bishoftu International Airport is set to be a cornerstone in Ethiopia’s efforts to elevate its tourism sector. The infrastructure improvements that the airport brings will not only make it easier for tourists to travel to and within Ethiopia but will also provide the country with the tools to better promote its cultural and natural heritage on the world stage.
Bishoftu International Airport represents more than just a transportation project—it is a game-changer for Ethiopia’s tourism industry. With its modern facilities, increased capacity, and better regional connectivity, the airport will play a crucial role in unlocking Ethiopia’s tourism potential, attracting millions of tourists, and contributing to the country’s economic development. As construction progresses, the airport will undoubtedly become a beacon for Ethiopian tourism, offering new opportunities for travelers and creating lasting benefits for local communities.
