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Ethiopian Airlines is set to embark on the ambitious venture of constructing a new ‘airport city,’ investing a substantial $5 billion in the project.
The airline’s CEO, Lema Yadecha, disclosed that the decision to initiate the construction of this sprawling complex, termed the “Airport City,” stems from the imperative to meet the escalating demands of its customers.
Yadecha further explained that the meticulous planning behind this project takes into consideration the burgeoning growth in the aviation sector.
Without the construction of the envisioned ‘airport city,’ the existing airport infrastructure could potentially face challenges in coping with the rapid expansion in the industry.
With a formidable budget of $5 billion, the project aims to accommodate an impressive annual passenger capacity of 100 million.
The initial phase of construction is slated to commence in the Oromia region, situated on the outskirts of Bishoftu city, approximately 60 kilometers from Addis Ababa.
The multifaceted ‘airport city’ is anticipated to feature modern amenities such as hotels, apartments, a duty-free shopping center, and a state-of-the-art cargo logistics center.
The comprehensive plan is currently undergoing a feasibility study, with preparations underway to issue an international tender in the near future.
In a recent development, Ethiopian Airlines solidified its commitment to expansion by entering agreements to purchase 78 airplanes from two renowned global aviation companies, Boeing and Airbus.
The CEO, Mr. Mesfen Tase, outlined the airline’s strategic vision to deliver a total of 271 aircraft by the year 2035. Presently boasting a fleet of 140 aircraft, Ethiopian Airlines aims to extend its reach to additional destinations, with plans to acquire an additional 130 planes to fulfill its ambitious 2035 agenda.
Throughout the year 2022 alone, the airline has made substantial aircraft orders, encompassing 17 Boeing 737 MAX, five Boeing 777 MAX, one Boeing 787, and six Airbus A350-1000 aircraft. Of these, 12 planes have already been delivered, capitalizing on the increased demand for international flights as the aviation industry gradually recovers from the constraints imposed by the COVID-19 pandemic.
Ethiopian Airlines remains at the forefront of strategic planning and expansion, positioning itself to meet the evolving needs of the global aviation landscape.
