Ethiopian Airlines represents one of Africa’s biggest success stories and is set to take it a step further with the $5 Billion construction of one of Africa’s largest airports.
Expected to be completed this year and surpass capacities of Heathrow airport in London and Dubai International airport, the new airport which is located around the town of Bishoftu, South East of the capital Addis Ababa spans 35 square kilometer of land, will be able to handle as many as 100 million passengers yearly, according to Ethiopian Airlines Chief Executive Officer Tewolde GebreMariam while speaking to the state news agency.
The existing Bole International airport in Addis Ababa is one of the busiest airports in Africa and is nearly filled to its capacity even with expansion undergone. A new airport is needed to take the pressure off the overcrowded airport with increasing amount of travelers.
Ethiopian Airlines continues to solidify its status as Africa’s most profitable carrier. Ethiopian Airlines reported a 25% increase in profits to $260 million in 2018-19 as it carried more passengers and cargo, according to a report on the carrier’s website. Revenue of almost $4 billion, 18% higher than previously, could continue to climb as the airline nears its goal of 22 million passengers by 2025.