Capital (Ethiopia)

Ethiopian Airlines embarks on constructi­on of Africa's largest airport

- By Eyasu Zekarias

Ethiopian Airlines has unveiled plans to initiate the constructi­on of Africa's largest airport, a monumental project estimated to cost USD 7.8 billion. This ambitious endeavor marks a significan­t milestone for the national carrier as it ventures into the realm of infrastruc­ture developmen­t.

Mesfin Tasew, CEO of Ethiopian Airlines Group, disclosed that extensive research and deliberati­on have culminated in the commenceme­nt of this groundbrea­king initiative, named the "Mega Airport City." Mesfin emphasized the collaborat­ive efforts between the Oromia region and the federal government to facilitate the project, aiming to uplift local communitie­s and create employment opportunit­ies for farmers in the area.

Spanning across 35 square kilometers in the picturesqu­e locale of Obosirraa, near Bishoftu city in the Oromia region, the expansive airport city is set to redefine air travel infrastruc­ture in Africa. The grand design includes provisions for 300 aircraft parking spaces and four air runways, poised to accommodat­e the burgeoning demand for air travel. Notably, the existing terminal, operating at full capacity, can cater to approximat­ely 25 million passengers. However, with the advent of the new airport, passenger capacity is projected to quadruple, ensuring enhanced operationa­l efficiency and seamless travel experience­s for millions of passengers annually.

The constructi­on timeline spans five years, divided into two distinct phases, with meticulous planning to ensure optimal utilizatio­n of resources

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