Ethiopian Airlines, Ethiopia's flagship carrier, has announced plans to inaugurate three new domestic airports—Negele Borena, Gore Metu, and Debre Markos—by mid-April, with flights operating three times weekly to each destination. This expansion aims to increase the airline's domestic network to 26 destinations, strengthening regional connectivity.
The airline’s CEO, Mesfin Tasew, emphasized that the move reflects a commitment to enhancing domestic infrastructure and supporting Ethiopia's economic growth. Recent developments include the inauguration of Yabello Airport in August 2025 and plans for a major new hub, Bishoftu International Airport, located 40 km southeast of Addis Ababa. This mega-project features four runways, multiple terminals, cargo capabilities, and an MRO center, with phased capacity increases expected to handle up to 110 million passengers annually by 2030.
These infrastructural projects are aligned with Ethiopia’s broader strategy to bridge Africa's infrastructure gaps and advance regional integration through initiatives like the African Continental Free Trade Area (AfCFTA). As Ethiopian Airlines marks its 80th anniversary, these developments underscore its ongoing commitment to expanding Africa's aviation footprint and supporting sustainable regional economic growth.
