Prime Minister Abiy Inaugurates Negele Borena Geda Airport

Addis Ababa, May 27, 2026 —Prime Minister Abiy Ahmed today officially inaugurated the new Negele Borena Geda Airport, a major step in expanding Ethiopia’s domestic aviation network and regional connectivity.

The newly launched airport becomes Ethiopian Airlines’ 24th domestic destination and is expected to play a significant role in boosting trade, tourism, and economic integration in the southern part of the country.

Speaking at the inauguration ceremony, the Prime Minister said the modern airport has been built to accommodate advanced aircraft, including the Boeing 737 Max, and will immediately begin operations with three weekly flights.

 

“Today, we officially inaugurate the new Negele Borena Geda Airport and Ethiopian Airlines’ 24th domestic destination,” PM Abiy stated.

He further added that: “Built to host advanced aircraft like the Boeing 737 Max, this modern station will immediately launch three weekly flights to catalyse local commerce, cross-border trade, and tourism.”

The Prime Minister emphasized that expanding transportation infrastructure is essential to unlocking regional economic opportunities and strengthening national unity.

 

“Every new runway we build bridges a gap, unlocks regional economic potential, and brings our people closer together,” he noted.

Prime Minister Abiy also praised Ethiopian Airlines, Africa’s largest and most successful carrier,  as it marks its 80th anniversary this year, describing it as “the pride of Africa” and “The New Spirit of Africa.”

 

The inauguration of the airport is expected to improve accessibility to the Borena area, facilitate business activity, and create new opportunities for investment and tourism while enhancing connectivity between communities.