Ethiopian Airlines Group has announced a major initiative to construct Africa’s largest airport in Abusera, located south of Addis Ababa, to support its rapid expansion. The project, led by a consortium including Dar Al-Handasah Consultants, Zaha Hadid Architects (ZHA), and Pascall+Watson, aims to establish a crucial hub connecting Africa, Asia, and the Middle East—regions experiencing the highest growth in global air travel.
The initial phase of the $6 billion project is scheduled for completion by 2029 and will accommodate 60 million passengers annually. Subsequent expansions will increase this capacity to 110 million passengers per year, aligning with the International Air Transport Association (IATA) projections.
The design of the new airport integrates modern technology with Ethiopian cultural heritage. Zaha Hadid Architects and Dar Al-Handasah Consultants envision a facility featuring 600,000 square meters of terminal space, 126,000 square meters of airline support areas, two parallel runways, and extensive cargo and support infrastructures. The architecture draws inspiration from the natural landscapes of the region, incorporating organic forms that reflect the surrounding environment, creating a unique and culturally resonant landmark.
Sustainability is a core focus of the design. The airport will utilize ecologically sound materials and sustainable construction practices, including natural ventilation, renewable energy sources, and water conservation systems. Energy efficiency will be enhanced through on-site renewable power generation and advanced climate control technologies, aiming to minimize the airport’s environmental impact.
Cristiano Ceccato, ZHA’s Director of Aviation, remarked, “The new airport at Abusera will serve as a global gateway for Africa and place Ethiopia at the heart of the continent’s transportation networks, connecting communities worldwide with a highly integrated air transport system.”
The design also prioritizes the passenger experience, featuring a spacious, light-filled terminal with an intuitive layout to facilitate seamless movement. ZHA’s design ethos seeks to combine functionality with inspiration, enhancing the overall travel experience.
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