Washington has announced that it is making high-level efforts to ensure strong participation by US companies in the construction of Ethiopia's massive USD 12.5 billion Bishoftu International Airport project.
Speaking during the Africa Logistics and Communications Symposium held in Addis Ababa on July 29, 2026, Mark Mitchell, US Deputy Assistant Secretary of Commerce for the Middle East and Africa, stated that the project was a key focus of discussions with the Ethiopian government and Ethiopian Airlines officials.
Praising the airport's significant role in the airline's growth, the Deputy Assistant Secretary pointed out that the project will facilitate the deployment of additional Boeing aircraft powered by GE Aerospace engines to further connect Africa to the region and the world.
He noted that the US government across various agencies is committed to supporting the realization of this transformative project, adding that the Department of Commerce has been closely engaged in securing strong US participation.
The Ethiopian Airlines Group has completed the prequalification stage for the engineering, procurement, construction, and financing (EPC-F) contracts covering the four main work packages of the airport facility. Prominent international construction companies and joint ventures from China, Europe, the Middle East, Türkiye, India, and Russia have advanced to the next stage of the tender.
These packages cover the main terminal, support facilities, airport infrastructure, and offsite transport links. Site preparation and foundational earthworks began in January 2026, with USD 610 million worth of earthworks slated for completion this year alone.
The airline will cover 20 to 30 percent of the cost itself, with the remainder financed by international lenders, including a USD 500 million pledge from the African Development Bank.
This development follows Ethiopian Airlines' recent conversion of options for six Boeing 787-9 Dreamliners into firm orders. The airline currently operates Africa's largest Boeing 787 fleet, comprising ten 787-9s and twenty 787-8s, alongside a prior announcement in January to order nine additional 787-9s.
Concluding his remarks, Mark Mitchell stated that the US aims to foster a favorable business environment for American companies in Ethiopia, emphasizing that the country's reform agenda creates genuine commercial opportunities for US firms.
