Ethiopian Airlines Group, the largest aviation group in Africa, officially launched a world-class passenger terminal at the airport in Kombolcha, the city that is strategically located at the centre of the country. This achievement represents a major step change for the country’s domestic air travel market and demonstrates the airline’s ongoing tireless effort to improve the country’s air transport network.
The official inauguration of the upgraded Kombolcha Airport witnessed the presence of distinguished guests, with H.E. Arega Kebede, President of the Amhara Regional State, presiding over the ceremony. He was accompanied by high-ranking government representatives, Ethiopian Airlines Group CEO Mr. Mesfin Tasew, and several senior leaders from the airline’s executive team. The occasion marked the successful realization of an ambitious, multi-year development project—fueled by strategic foresight, substantial financial backing, and extensive construction efforts—to establish Kombolcha as a vital center for regional air connectivity.
Commenting on the inauguration of the new passenger terminal, Ethiopian Airlines Group CEO Mr. Mesfin Tasew said, “We are delighted with the completion of our Wollow Kombolcha Airport construction project that will enhance our passengers’ experience at the airport. The inauguration of this new terminal demonstrates our commitment to enhancing both our domestic and international operations at a comparable pace. We believe the enhancement of the airport facility will boost the socioeconomic growth of neighboring cities as well.”
The redevelopment project, valued at over twelve million euros, included a broad range of enhancements designed to meet international airport standards. The centerpiece of the project is the new passenger terminal building, which spans a total built-up area of three thousand five hundred square meters. In addition to the main terminal, the airport now features a separate VIP terminal for high-level travelers, as well as modern support facilities that elevate the functionality and safety of airport operations.
Complementary infrastructure was also part of the project’s scope. A state-of-the-art airport rescue and firefighting station, an essential safety feature, was built alongside a water reservoir, dedicated parking spaces, and newly developed access roads that improve the airport’s connectivity to the city and surrounding areas. These upgrades aim not only to improve travel convenience but also to enhance emergency response capabilities and environmental resilience.
Ethiopian Airlines currently operates daily flights to and from Kombolcha, connecting the region with the rest of the country through its extensive domestic network. Importantly, the airline now offers a direct route between Kombolcha and Bahir Dar, enabling passengers to bypass Addis Ababa for regional travel—making journeys faster, easier, and more cost-effective for both business and leisure travelers.
The opening of the revamped Kombolcha Airport is more than just an infrastructure milestone; it reflects Ethiopian Airlines’ broader strategic vision for domestic air transport. The Group has made it a priority to invest in regional aviation facilities, recognizing their potential to stimulate economic growth, promote tourism, and improve access to remote or underserved regions of Ethiopia. Kombolcha, known for its industrial development and strategic geographic location, stands to benefit enormously from improved air connectivity.
By enhancing the airport’s capacity and services, Ethiopian Airlines is also addressing the growing demand for reliable and efficient air transport options within the country. The airline’s vision goes beyond simply increasing flight frequency; it aims to build a seamless, world-class aviation ecosystem that supports Ethiopia’s national development goals.
The Kombolcha project is part of a broader airport modernization campaign being undertaken by the airline. Ethiopian Airlines Group has stated its intention to continue upgrading and expanding domestic airport infrastructure across Ethiopia. Other airports are being reviewed for future development, with a strong focus on improving passenger services, operational efficiency, and safety compliance in line with global standards.
Through the successful transition of the Kombolcha facility, Ethiopian Airlines has proven to be yet again, not only a leader in the African airline industry but also a significant contributor to the fabric of Ethiopia’s transportation sector. While it further develops its fleet, network and offerings, Group will continue to serve as an engine for Ethiopia’s connectivity – driving trade, investment, and tourism across the country and the African continent.
