The renovation and extension of Bole International Airport’s historic passenger terminal (terminal 1) was officially opened by Ethiopian Airlines Group. The facility, which currently handles all domestic services, has undergone extensive modernization and remodeling.

Ethiopian Airlines Group CEO, Mesfin Tasew, stated that the facility, which has been in operation for several decades, required significant renovations to be compatible with contemporary services. In addition to Ethiopian Airlines’ plan to modernize domestic service, an increase in handling capacity was also necessary due to the growth of the Airlines’ services and the nation’s tourist sector.

The building has been expanded and renovated to occupy 25,750 square meters, more than doubling its previous size. The CEO claims that the facility now includes 10 bus boarding gates, 22 check-in counters, 16 self-check-in kiosks, a premium lounge, four contact gates capable of accommodating large aircrafts, and four baggage claim carousels. Additionally, several offices and stores are housed in the terminal, which is currently connected to terminal 2, which handles international flights.

The project was handled by the Chinese contractor CCCC and costs USD 50 million.

Ethiopian Airlines, which is also responsible for managing airports all over the country, is working to expand and modernize local terminals throughout the nation. For example, Gode and Jinka airports have recently undergone expansion and renovation under its management.