Dar Wins $6 Billion Contract for Ethiopian Airlines’ Revolutionary Airport Project

Ethiopian Airlines has entered into a significant partnership with Dar, a leading design and consultancy firm with operations across Ethiopia, Kenya, and Uganda, to oversee the design and planning of a new international airport. This ambitious project, set to transform air travel in the region, was formalized on August 3, 2016, through the signing of an agreement between Mesfin Tasew, CEO of Ethiopian Airlines Group, and Tariq Al-Khani, CEO of Dar.

The new airport, to be constructed in Abusera near Bishoftu, is a strategic move by Ethiopian Airlines to address the growing demands of air travel and to position Ethiopia as a major hub in Africa’s aviation industry. Dar’s role in this project is comprehensive, encompassing not only the design work, which is expected to be completed within a year, but also consultancy services to guide the selection of the construction contractor. This ensures that the project will be executed with a high level of expertise and efficiency.

The construction of the airport will be carried out in two phases, with the first phase designed to handle 60 million passengers annually. This phase is expected to be completed within five years and represents a major investment, with costs projected to reach up to $6 billion. The financing for this massive undertaking will be secured through loans, underscoring the project’s scale and importance to the region.

The second phase of the project is even more ambitious, aiming to expand the airport’s capacity to accommodate 100 million passengers each year. This expansion is crucial as Ethiopian Airlines continues to grow its fleet and route network, positioning itself as a key player in global aviation.

The project also considers the social impact on the local community. The construction site, located in Abusera, is currently home to 2,500 households. In recognition of this, Ethiopian Airlines and Dar have made provisions for the relocation of these residents, ensuring that they are moved to a new location and provided with rehabilitation support. This aspect of the project reflects a commitment to social responsibility and sustainable development.

Tariq Al-Khani emphasized that the design of the airport would be deeply rooted in Ethiopia’s rich cultural heritage, showcasing the country’s multiculturalism and historical significance. This approach not only aims to create a functional and modern airport but also a landmark that reflects Ethiopia’s identity on the global stage.

Additionally, the new airport will be well-integrated into the existing transportation infrastructure. Plans are in place to connect the new facility with Bole International Airport via an express train and a new road network, ensuring seamless connectivity between the two airports. This integration is expected to enhance passenger experience and operational efficiency, solidifying Ethiopia’s role as a major transit hub in Africa.

As Ethiopian Airlines continues to expand its operations, this new airport is set to be a cornerstone of its future growth, providing the capacity and infrastructure needed to support the airline’s vision of becoming Africa’s leading carrier. The collaboration with Dar represents a critical step in realizing this vision, combining world-class design and planning with a deep respect for Ethiopia’s cultural and social fabric.