ADDIS ABABA, Ethiopia – Ethiopian Airlines has unveiled a major expansion of its Maintenance, Repair, and Overhaul (MRO) complex at Bole International Airport, a $150 million project that positions Ethiopia as the largest aircraft maintenance hub in Africa. The new facilities, constructed by China Communications Construction Company, are set to significantly boost the airline’s maintenance capabilities and generate new revenue streams.

The expansion includes a new hangar capable of accommodating wide-body aircraft, a state-of-the-art component maintenance center, and an automated warehouse. These additions will increase the airline’s airframe maintenance capacity by 50%, enabling it to service its growing fleet and meet the increasing demand for MRO services from other carriers across Africa and the Middle East.

A key highlight of the project is the advanced technology employed during its construction. The use of 5G remote technologies for lifting heavy steel structures was a first for Ethiopia, underscoring the project’s innovative approach. The MRO complex is certified by both the U.S. Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) and the European Aviation Safety Agency (EASA), ensuring it meets the highest international standards.

This strategic investment is a significant step towards achieving African aviation self-reliance. By providing world-class MRO services on the continent, Ethiopian Airlines is reducing the need for African carriers to send their aircraft overseas for maintenance, a move that will save time and money for the region’s airlines. The expansion is expected to have a ripple effect on the local economy, creating jobs and fostering technological transfer.