Construction of Zaha Hadid Architects’ Bishoftu International Airport Kicks Off in Ethiopia
Rendering of Bishoftu International Airport, Ethiopia, by Zaha Hadid Architects.
Designed by Zaha Hadid Architects, Africa’s largest airport has begun construction. Bishoftu International Airport (BIA), located 25 miles south of the Ethiopian capital Addis Ababa, will serve Ethiopian Airlines, the continent’s biggest carrier (in terms of number of passengers, destinations served, fleet size, and revenue).
Image by X-Universe, courtesy Zaha Hadid Architects
In hopes of becoming Africa's global aviation hub, BIA is designed to efficiently transfer the projected 80 percent of passengers transitioning between destinations without leaving the airport. Facilities include an airside hotel with 350 guest rooms, a wide range of dining and entertainment options, and outdoor spaces for relaxation. Terminal piers will feature unique interior colors and materials that reflect different regions of Ethiopia. Inspired by the Great Rift Valley, which passes near Bishoftu, a single central spine will connect the terminal's facilities and aircraft piers, keeping transfer distances to a minimum.
Image by X-Universe, courtesy Zaha Hadid Architects
BIA plans to use locally produced and recycled materials, channel stormwater into new wetlands and bioswales for storage and reuse, and generate on-site energy through photovoltaic arrays.
“Bishoftu International Airport is a visionary project for Ethiopia and Africa as a whole. Airports bring people together and bridge national divides. ZHA is honored to be part of its development—connecting every region of the continent as Africa’s global gateway,” said Cristiano Ceccato de Sabata, director of aviation at Zaha Hadid Architects.
Phase one of the airport's construction will serve 60 million passengers a year, with future phases planning to serve up to 110 million passengers annually. Once complete, BIA will have four runways and parking for 270 aircraft.
Image by X-Universe, courtesy Zaha Hadid Architects
Image by X-Universe, courtesy Zaha Hadid Architects
Located nearly 1,300 feet lower than Addis Ababa’s existing Bole Airport, BIA’s positioning and runway lengths will optimize the maximum take-off weight, allowing aircrafts to use less fuel to carry more passengers and cargo.
A high-speed rail line will connect the center of Addis Ababa and Bole Airport to BIA. The new airport and its integrated Airport City of mixed-use buildings will create new jobs for the surrounding population of 80,000 people.
Phase one of the project is slated for completion in 2030.
Images by X-Universe, courtesy Zaha Hadid Architects
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