Getachew Mengiste, Director-General of the Ethiopian Civil Aviation Authority, stated that the construction of new airports and the renovation and expansion of existing ones are underway to enhance domestic air transport services.
The Director-General stated that focused efforts are being made on air transport infrastructure development.
He noted that 23 airports in Ethiopia are currently providing regular air transport services.
Additionally, he indicated that 22 small airstrips are recognized and operational under the authority.
He mentioned that five airports are currently under construction by the federal government, and expansion and renovation activities are also being carried out on existing ones.
He explained that the existing infrastructure is insufficient given Ethiopia's land area, economic growth, and transport demand, adding that efforts are being made to strengthen domestic air transport services.
The Director-General also stated that the Ethiopian Civil Aviation Authority has issued a directive enabling regional governments, city administrations, and investors, in addition to the federal government, to construct and manage airports.
He pointed out that based on this directive, requests have been submitted for the construction of 32 new small airstrips, and the authority has conducted site selections.
He further noted that some projects are already under construction, some are in the study phase, and others are in the process of securing financing.
He stated that these facilities would be built in tourist destination areas and regions rich in perishable agricultural products and minerals, and for this purpose, a National Airports Development Master Plan is being prepared, reported ENA.