Ethiopian Airlines has inaugurated an expanded domestic terminal at Addis Ababa Bole International Airport, completing a $50 million upgrade designed to manage rising passenger volumes and reinforce its status as Africa’s top airline.
The renovation more than doubles the terminal’s footprint to roughly 25,750 square metres and introduces additional boarding gates, check-in counters, and automated baggage systems to accelerate passenger processing. The airline stated that the expansion will reduce congestion and enhance the overall travel experience across its domestic routes.
Rising demand for air travel in Ethiopia, fueled by economic growth, business activity, and a rebound in tourism, underpins the upgrade. International arrivals in 2025 grew by 15 percent, while domestic travel is increasing as more people move between regional cities.
Ethiopian Airlines currently operates over 200 domestic flights each day, connecting Addis Ababa with more than 20 destinations, including Mekelle, Bahir Dar, and Dire Dawa. Air transport is particularly vital in the country, where long distances and challenging terrain make road travel slow and arduous.
The upgraded terminal also reinforces Addis Ababa as one of Africa’s busiest aviation hubs. Serving as a key gateway linking the continent to Europe, Asia, the Middle East, and the Americas, improved domestic connections are expected to facilitate smoother transit for international passengers.
This development is part of a broader expansion plan by both the airline and the Ethiopian government. Ethiopian Airlines recently revealed plans to open three new domestic airports, expanding its network to 26 destinations.
Authorities are also constructing a new airport near Bishoftu
Facing increasing competition among African aviation hubs, Ethiopian Airlines is betting that continued investment in terminals and airports will allow it to maintain its leading position and capture a bigger share of the continent’s growing passenger traffic.