Ethiopia has officially begun construction on what is set to be Africa's largest airport, with plans to handle 100 million passengers annually by 2030. The ambitious project, announced by Prime Minister Abiy Ahmed, will feature four runways and provide parking for 270 aircraft.

The airport, to be built near the town of Bishoftu, 45 km from the capital Addis Ababa, will be linked to existing infrastructure via rail transport. Ethiopian Airlines, the country's flag carrier, has also ordered 124 new aircraft as part of the expansion project, solidifying its position as the largest aircraft operator in Africa.

The new airport is expected to be completed by 2029 and will significantly boost Ethiopia's aviation industry, which currently carries around 17 million passengers annually. The project is a significant milestone for the country's economic growth and development, and is expected to have a ripple effect on the entire region.