Ethiopian Airlines is set to make a significant mark on the regional aviation landscape with its ambitious plan to construct Africa’s largest airport in Abusera.
This mega-project is a cornerstone of the airline’s 15-year strategy to become a world-leading aviation powerhouse.
As part of that overall strategy, the strategic location of Abusera offers the airline unparalleled potential for growth. It will allow Ethiopian Airlines to comfortably accommodate the International Air Transport Association’s projections. IATA has projected a 200% increase in passenger traffic will occur in the region over the next decade.
The Strategic Importance of Abusera
The development of a large scale airport operation in Abusera is a key component in Ethiopian Airlines ambitious expansion strategy. The geographic location of Abusera forms a key part of the decision to base a major hub there.
Unlike the capacity-constrained Bole International Airport, Abusera’s lower altitude promises improved aircraft performance. Relevantly, its proximity to Addis Ababa, supported by a planned express rail link, ensures seamless connectivity.
Scheduled for completion in 2029, the airport’s first phase will boast an impressive capacity of 60 million passengers annually. To give a sense of scale, this will eclipse the current busiest African airport by nearly threefold.
This colossal undertaking is expected to generate thousands of jobs, supporting Ethiopian Airlines’ expanding operations and customer base.
The ultimate goal is to handle a staggering 110 million passengers per year, quadrupling the capacity of Bole International Airport.
World-Class Development Planned
Ethiopian Airlines CEO Mesfin Tasew spoke on the planned development. “With its exceptional capacity and world-class facilities, this new airport promises to elevate African aviation.”
To bring this vision to life, the airline has entrusted a consortium led by Dar Al-Handasah Consultants (Shair and Partners) with the consultancy contract.
This group also includes renowned architectural firms Zaha Hadid Architects, Pascall+Watson Architects, and engineering powerhouses Landrum&Brown and TY Lin.
The consortium boasts an impressive track record. Dar, TY Lin, and Landrum&Brown are part of Sidara, a global leader in aviation according to Engineering News Record 2023.
Zaha Hadid Architects brings its iconic design flair and extensive airport project experience, while Pascall+Watson Architects offers a wealth of expertise from over 2,000 aviation projects worldwide.
Together, they will oversee technical advisory, engineering, project management, and construction supervision for the airport’s extensive facilities, including passenger terminals, airline support areas, runways, and infrastructure.
Ethiopian Airlines and Partners
Ethiopian Airlines itself is a global aviation success story. As Africa’s largest airline with a modern fleet serving over 150 destinations, it has a proven track record of growth and innovation.
Dar Al-Handasah Consultants, the consortium lead, is a global leader in design, planning, and engineering for a wide range of infrastructure projects.
Zaha Hadid Architects, founded in London 45 years ago, is internationally recognized for its groundbreaking architectural designs.
The Abusera airport project represents a bold and ambitious step for Ethiopian Airlines. It has the potential to transform air travel in Africa, creating new opportunities for economic growth and development.
As the project progresses, industry figures will be watching with interest as this mega-airport takes shape.
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