Ethiopia has sealed a USD6 billion deal with Dubai-based engineering and consulting firm- Sidara for a design of Africa’s biggest airport project.
The agreement allows Sidara to have a comprehensive role in Ethiopia’s revolutionary aviation project spanning from the design work to consultancy services to guide the selection of the construction contractor, according to Ethiopian Airlines.
Briefing media Friday, August 9, 2024, Ethiopian airlines CEO, Mesfin Tassew disclosed that when construction is completed in 2029, the planned new four-runway airport will have a capacity to handle 100 million passengers a year and provide parking for 270 aircraft that will be Africa's biggest.
Located 42 kilometers from Addis Ababa, in Bishoftu Town, the mega airport project is a strategic move by Ethiopian Airlines to address the growing demands of air travel and to position Ethiopia as a major aviation hub in Africa.
Sidara Director of Operations, Tariq Al Qanni said the design of the airport would be deeply rooted in Ethiopia’s rich cultural heritage, showcasing the country’s multiculturalism and historical significance. This approach not only aims to create a functional and modern airport but also a landmark that reflects Ethiopia’s identity on the global stage.
While Ethiopian Airlines carried 17 million passengers in the 2023/2024 financial year, it planned to carry 25 million passengers soon, Mesfin said.
Mesfin also indicated that the construction will have two phases and only the first phase will cost USD6 billion.