Addis Ababa’s Bole International Airport is on track to surpass Johannesburg’s OR Tambo International Airport as the busiest airport in sub-Saharan Africa. This development comes as Ethiopian Airlines continues to expand its operations, capitalizing on strategic investments in aviation infrastructure and increasing global connectivity.
According to data from OAG, a leading travel industry analytics firm, OR Tambo International handled 12.27 million passengers in 2024, while Bole International was close behind with 12.1 million passengers. With less than 200,000 passengers separating the two, Addis Ababa’s upward trajectory suggests that it may soon claim the top spot in the region.
This shift marks a significant change in Africa’s aviation landscape, particularly after OR Tambo lost its position as the continent’s busiest airport to Cairo International Airport during the COVID-19 pandemic. South Africa’s main international gateway has long been a dominant force in air travel, but the rise of Ethiopian Airlines and Addis Ababa’s strategic positioning have made Bole International a formidable competitor.
Ethiopian Airlines has played a pivotal role in Bole International’s rise. The airline, one of the most successful carriers on the continent, has aggressively expanded its network, connecting Africa with major destinations in Europe, North America, the Middle East, and Asia. As a result, Addis Ababa has emerged as a crucial transit hub for passengers traveling between different regions of the world.
Several factors contribute to Ethiopian Airlines’ success:
Strategic Location – Addis Ababa’s central position in Africa makes it an ideal hub for connecting flights between the continent and international destinations.
Fleet Expansion – The airline has invested heavily in modern aircraft, including Boeing 787 Dreamliners and Airbus A350s, improving efficiency and passenger comfort.
Partnerships and Alliances – Ethiopian Airlines is a member of the Star Alliance, the world’s largest airline network, which enhances its global reach.
Investment in Infrastructure – The expansion of Bole International Airport, including a new terminal, has significantly increased its capacity to handle more passengers.
Johannesburg’s OR Tambo International Airport remains a key player in African aviation, but it faces challenges that could impact its competitiveness. South Africa’s economic struggles, airline bankruptcies, and reduced domestic demand have slowed the airport’s growth. Additionally, Ethiopian Airlines’ aggressive expansion has given Addis Ababa a competitive edge in attracting more transit passengers.According to data from OAG, a leading travel industry analytics firm, OR Tambo International handled 12.27 million passengers in 2024, while Bole International was close behind with 12.1 million passengers. With less than 200,000 passengers separating the two, Addis Ababa’s upward trajectory suggests that it may soon claim the top spot in the region.
The rise of Addis Ababa as a leading aviation hub reflects the shifting dynamics of air travel in Africa. With continued investment in its airline and airport infrastructure, Ethiopia is positioning itself as a dominant force in global aviation. Meanwhile, OR Tambo and other major airports in Africa will need to innovate and adapt to maintain their relevance in an increasingly competitive market.
As 2025 approaches, all eyes will be on Bole International Airport to see if it officially claims the title of sub-Saharan Africa’s busiest airport, marking a new era in African air travel.
