Ethiopian Airlines Group has begun construction on Bishoftu International Airport (BIA), designed by Zaha Hadid Architects, approximately 40 kilometers south of Addis Ababa. The airport will be built in multiple phases, with the first phase scheduled to open in 2030, accommodating 60 million passengers annually. Future phases will increase capacity to 110 million passengers, with four runways and parking for 270 aircraft.
“Bishoftu International Airport is a visionary project for Ethiopia and Africa as a whole. Airports bring people together and bridge national divides. ZHA is honored to be part its development—connecting every region of the continent as Africa’s global gateway,” said Cristiano Ceccato de Sabata, Director of Aviation, Zaha Hadid Architects.
The airport’s design incorporates unique interior materials and color palettes, reflecting Ethiopia’s diverse regions. A central spine connects the terminal’s facilities and aircraft piers, minimizing transfer distances. The terminal will be naturally ventilated, with solar shading and semi-enclosed spaces, targeting Leadership in Energy and Environmental Design (LEED) Gold certification.
The project includes an airside hotel, dining and entertainment options, and outdoor gardens. A high-speed rail link will connect BIA to central Addis Ababa and Bole Airport, supporting a local population of 80,000.
“Bishoftu International Airport will be the largest aviation infrastructure project in Africa’s history, more than four times the capacity of Ethiopia’s current main airport,” said Abiy Ahmed Ali, Prime Minister, Federal Government of Ethiopia.
Image Courtesy: World Architecture
