Ethiopia Airlines is all set to construct the largest airport in Abusera. The airport is anticipated to be the largest one in the whole African continent.
Reportedly, the first phase of the construction will cost $6 billion and will set up a terminal, that is capable of handling 60 million passengers, every year. The second phase will increase the capacity to 110 million passengers annually by the year 2029.
Ethiopian Airlines Group has begun with the new project to build Africa’s largest airport in Abusera, south of Addis Ababa. The has been initiated to support the airline’s rapid expansion.
The project is designed by a consortium led by Dar Al-Handasah Consultants – Zaha Hadid Architects (ZHA) and Pascall + Watson, which will serve as a pivotal hub connecting Africa, Asia and the Middle East regions, which will experience the fastest growth in global air travel.
As per the sources, the initial phase of the new airport is set to accommodate 60 million passengers annually with an investment of $6 billion, by its completion in 2029. However, the future expansions will elevate the capacity to 110 million passengers per year, positioning the airport as a key player in meeting the International Air Transport Association (IATA) forecasts.
The design of the new airport in Abusera was spearheaded by Zaha Hadid Architects (ZHA) and Dar Al-Handasah Consultants which is envisioned as a blend of modern technology and Ethiopian cultural heritage.
The project will feature the world-class passenger facilities, including 600,000 sq. meters of terminal space and 126,000 sq. meters of airline support areas, along with the two parallel runways and extensive cargo, also consisting of the airport support infrastructures.
The Architecture project aims to be deeply influenced by the natural landscapes of the region with the organic forms and structures consisting of the surrounding environment.
It is an approach which ensures that the airport stands as a beacon of modernity and also resonates with the local context, by creating a unique sense of place.
Considerably, one of the key aspects of the proposal of the design was focused on sustainability. The terminal seeks to incorporate the ecologically sound materials and sustainable construction practices, which include the use of natural ventilation, renewable energy sources and water conservation systems.
Furthermore, the design mainly concentrates on the energy efficiency, with on-site renewable power generation and innovative climate control systems that reduces the environmental footprint of the airport.
Director of Aviation ZHA – Cristiano Ceccato said that the new airport at Abusera will be a global gateway for Africa and will take Ethiopia at the heart of the continent’s transportation networks; connecting communities around the world with the most integrated air transport system.
Ceccato added to his statement that the proposal of the design prioritizes the passenger experience, keeping in mind the layout that aims to be intuitive and easy to navigate.
Notably, the terminal will be spacious and light-filled, and will offer a seamless flow of movement for the passengers. Designs by ZHA ethos emphasizes upon creating spaces that are not just functional but also inspiring with the architectural elements that elevate the travel experience.