Ethiopia Expands Aviation Network With Launch of New Regional Airport
Ethiopia has taken another major step in strengthening its aviation infrastructure and regional connectivity with the official inauguration of the new Negele Borena Geda Airport in the southern part of the country.
The airport was commissioned on Wednesday by Ethiopian Prime Minister as part of the government’s broader strategy to expand domestic air travel, boost regional economic growth, and improve transportation access across Ethiopia.
According to a statement shared by the prime minister on X, the newly inaugurated facility becomes the 24th domestic destination in the growing network of , Africa’s largest and most successful airline.
Designed to accommodate larger and more advanced aircraft, including the modern Boeing 737 Max, the airport is expected to significantly enhance mobility and commercial activity in the southern region. Ethiopian Airlines is set to commence operations immediately, beginning with three weekly flights connecting the area to the national aviation network.
Speaking during the inauguration ceremony, Prime Minister Abiy Ahmed emphasized the importance of aviation infrastructure in driving national development and uniting communities across the country.
“Every new runway we build bridges a gap, unlocks regional economic potential, and brings our people closer together,” he stated.
The prime minister also used the occasion to celebrate Ethiopian Airlines as the carrier marks its 80th anniversary this year, describing the airline as “the pride of Africa” and “the New Spirit of Africa” for its continued leadership in the continent’s aviation sector.
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The launch of the Negele Borena Geda Airport forms part of an ambitious domestic expansion plan unveiled earlier this year by Ethiopian Airlines. The airline announced plans to open four new regional airports in Negele Borena, Gore Mettu, Mizan Aman, and Debre Markos in a move aimed at improving national connectivity and expanding access to underserved regions.
Chief Executive Officer of Ethiopian Airlines, , previously revealed that the expansion project would increase the airline’s domestic destinations from 23 to 27, further strengthening Ethiopia’s position as a leading aviation hub in Africa.
The latest development also comes as Ethiopia pushes ahead with plans for the massive Bishoftu International Airport project, which is expected to become Africa’s largest aviation hub upon completion. Construction of the mega-airport began earlier this year after the project was officially unveiled in 2025 to help reduce congestion and rising passenger pressure at Addis Ababa Bole International Airport.
Ethiopian Airlines has continued to record significant growth both domestically and internationally. In April, reports citing US aircraft manufacturer Boeing revealed that the airline had converted options for six Boeing 787-9 Dreamliners into confirmed orders as part of its fleet modernization and expansion strategy.
Today, Ethiopian Airlines operates flights to more than 145 international passenger and cargo destinations worldwide and maintains a modern fleet of over 170 aircraft, including Airbus models, with an average fleet age of approximately seven years.
The opening of the Negele Borena Geda Airport further reinforces Ethiopia’s ambition to position itself as Africa’s premier aviation gateway while stimulating regional development, trade, tourism, and economic integration across the country.
