Bishoftu International Airport by Zaha Hadid Architects is currently under construction south of Addis Ababa, Ethiopia
Bishoftu International Airport by Zaha Hadid Architects is currently under construction south of Addis Ababa, Ethiopia. This cross-shaped infrastructure will set a new size record on the African continent.
A revealed the construction plan for the largest airport in Africa. Bishoftu International Airport is currently under construction south of Addis Ababa, Ethiopia, and was commissioned by the Ethiopian Airlines Group.
As detailed by , it will have around 660,000 square meters and will feature a unusual shape, in X.
The company claims that this shape is not only aesthetic, but will make it easier to navigate inside the building.
Furthermore, “each of the terminal’s piers incorporates a unique interior materiality and chromatic palette to reflect the diverse regions of Ethiopia”, says Zaha Hadid Architects, cited by New Atlas.
“Inspired by the Great Rift Valleywhich passes close to Bishoftu as it crosses the country, a single central spine connects terminal facilities and aircraft berths — minimizing transfer distances and ensuring connecting passengers can easily navigate to their next boarding gate,” he added.
According to the company, it will be built using modular manufacturing and will incorporate locally produced materials. Rainwater from the airport’s runways, taxiways and platforms will be distributed through wetlands and canals for storage and reuse.
Com initial opening scheduled for 2030the airport will be built in phases and will eventually accommodate up to 110 million passengers per year, with hubs for 270 aircraft.
