International Airports

Airport NameCityIATA CodeICAO Code
Addis Ababa Bole International AirportAddis AbabaADDHAAB
Dire Dawa International AirportDire DawaDIRHADR
Mekelle Alula Aba Nega AirportMekelleMQXHAHO
Bahir Dar AirportBahir DarBJRHABC
Gondar AirportGondarGDQHAGD
Jijiga AirportJijigaJIJHAJJ

Domestic Airports

Airport NameCityIATA CodeICAO Code
Jimma AirportJimmaJIMHAJM
Lalibela AirportLalibelaLLIHALL
Hosaena AirportHosaenaNoneHAHN
Shire AirportShireSHCHASS
Dembidolo AirportDembidoloDBBHADR
Assosa AirportAssosaNoneHASO
Semera AirportSemeraNoneHASR

Notes:

  • Addis Ababa Bole International Airport (ADD) is the main international gateway to Ethiopia and handles most of the international flights.
  • Smaller regional airports such as those in Mekelle, Dire Dawa, and Bahir Dar serve both international and domestic flights.
  • Domestic airports are typically used for regional and internal flights, with some airports serving as hubs for Ethiopian Airlines.

Ethiopia Airports: Modernisation Plans Unveiled for 2025

Ethiopia, a country in the Horn of Africa, boasts a growing network of airports that serve as vital links for both domestic and international travel. These airports play a crucial role in connecting Ethiopia to the rest of the world and facilitating movement within the country.

Ethiopia has 60 airports, with Addis Ababa Bole International Airport being the largest and busiest. This airport serves as a major hub for Ethiopian Airlines, the country’s flag carrier, and connects Ethiopia to numerous international destinations.

Ethiopia’s airports operate in East Africa Time (EAT), which is three hours ahead of Coordinated Universal Time (UTC+3). The country’s aviation sector is expanding rapidly, with plans for new airports and upgrades to existing ones. This growth reflects Ethiopia’s commitment to improving its transport infrastructure and boosting economic development through increased connectivity.

Major Airports and Infrastructure

Ethiopia has several important airports that serve as gateways for domestic and international travel. These airports play a crucial role in connecting the country to the rest of Africa and the world.

Addis Ababa Bole International Airport

Addis Ababa Bole International Airport is Ethiopia’s largest and busiest airport. It serves as the main hub for Ethiopian Airlines, the country’s flag carrier. The airport handles millions of passengers each year and offers direct flights to numerous destinations across Africa, Europe, Asia, and North America.

The airport has two passenger terminals and modern facilities to accommodate travellers. Its runway can handle large aircraft, making it suitable for long-haul flights. In recent years, the airport has undergone significant expansions to increase its capacity and improve services.

Regional Hubs and Their Significance

Besides Addis Ababa, Ethiopia has several regional airports that serve as important hubs. These airports connect remote areas to the capital and facilitate tourism to historical sites.

Gondar Airport and Lalibela Airport are two notable regional hubs. They provide access to popular tourist destinations known for their ancient churches and historical landmarks. These airports mainly handle domestic flights, with some international charters during peak tourist seasons.

Regional airports play a vital role in Ethiopia’s air transport network. They support local economies, boost tourism, and improve connectivity within the country. Many of these airports are undergoing upgrades to enhance their infrastructure and expand their capacity to handle more flights and passengers.

Accessibility and Network

Ethiopian Airlines has expanded its reach across the country and beyond. The airline focuses on improving airport infrastructure and connecting major cities domestically and internationally.

Domestic Air Travel

Ethiopian Airlines serves over 22 destinations within Ethiopia. Key airports include Gondar Airport, Lalibela Airport, Axum Airport, Gambela Airport, and Bahir Dar Airport. These airports link major cultural and economic centres.

The airline has invested in upgrading domestic airports. A prime example is the new terminal at Robe Wako Gutu Airport. This expansion improves passenger experience and increases capacity.

Ethiopian Airlines offers frequent flights between cities. For instance, there are up to 14 weekly flights to and from Robe Wako Gutu Airport. This frequency enhances connectivity and supports regional development.

International Connectivity

Ethiopian Airlines boasts an extensive international network. It connects Ethiopia to major cities worldwide through its hub in Addis Ababa.

The airline prioritises passenger comfort and accessibility. It conforms to WCAG 2.0 AA standards for website accessibility. This ensures all travellers can easily book flights and access information.

For international travellers, Ethiopian Airlines offers:

  • Priority airport standby
  • Priority baggage handling
  • Advanced boarding

These services enhance the travel experience for all passengers, including those with disabilities. The airline’s commitment to accessibility extends to its physical infrastructure and digital platforms.

Frequently Asked Questions

Ethiopia has several airports that serve both domestic and international travellers. These airports offer various amenities and services to make air travel more convenient.

What are the main international airports in Ethiopia?

The primary international airport in Ethiopia is Addis Ababa Bole International Airport. It serves as the main hub for Ethiopian Airlines and handles most of the country’s international flights.

How many airports operate scheduled flights in Ethiopia?

Ethiopia has approximately 20 airports that operate scheduled flights. These include both international and domestic airports spread across the country.

Can you provide information on the expansion of Addis Ababa Bole International Airport?

Addis Ababa Bole International Airport has undergone significant expansion in recent years. The airport now boasts a new terminal building and increased capacity to handle more passengers and flights.

What amenities are available at the primary Ethiopian airports?

Ethiopian airports offer a range of amenities for travellers. These typically include shops, restaurants, and currency exchange services. Larger airports like Addis Ababa Bole International Airport may also have lounges and duty-free shops.

Which airlines offer direct flights to and from Ethiopian airports?

Ethiopian Airlines is the main carrier operating flights to and from Ethiopian airports. Several other international airlines also offer direct flights to Ethiopia, particularly to Addis Ababa.

Do Ethiopian airports offer facilities for passengers with disabilities?

Most Ethiopian airports provide facilities for passengers with disabilities. These may include wheelchair services and assistance for boarding and disembarking aircraft. It’s advisable to contact the airline or airport in advance to arrange any specific requirements.