Chinese construction companies have emerged as leading contenders in the shortlist for the construction of Ethiopian Airlines’ planned new airport, as the airline moves closer to awarding major construction contracts for the USD 12.5 billion aviation project.
The airport, which will be built southeast of Addis Ababa, is expected to become Africa’s largest airport upon completion. The facility is designed to reduce pressure on the existing Bole International Airport and eventually handle up to 110 million passengers annually.
Ethiopian Airlines announced that several Chinese companies and Chinese led joint ventures have been shortlisted for the construction of key components of the project, including the passenger terminal, support facilities, airfield infrastructure, and road connections.
According to a report reviewed by Reuters, Chinese companies or China-led groups accounted for 15 of the 33 shortlisted entries. The shortlisted firms include China Communications Construction Company, China Civil Engineering Construction Corporation, China Road and Bridge Corporation, and Beijing Urban Construction Group.
The shortlisted Chinese companies will compete against international firms and consortiums, including Italy’s Webuild, France’s Vinci, South Korea’s Samsung C&T, and Turkey’s Kalyon and IC Ictas.
Ethiopian Airlines received the contract for the airport’s design work in January 2026. Following the completion of the initial design phase, bidders will now proceed to the next stage of the tender process for construction contracts.
Ethiopian officials have stated that the airport is expected to be completed by 2030 and become a major aviation hub connecting Africa with global markets.
The African Development Bank is among the institutions involved in arranging financing for the project and is expected to contribute USD 500 million toward its development.
The airport project forms part of Ethiopia’s broader efforts to expand aviation infrastructure and strengthen its position as a regional transportation hub. Across East Africa, countries including Kenya and Rwanda are also investing in aviation infrastructure to support growth in tourism, trade, and passenger travel.
Ethiopian Airlines, Africa’s largest airline by several operational measures, currently operates its main hub from Bole International Airport, which has experienced increasing passenger demand due to the airline’s rapid international expansion.
Source: Reuters
