Modernizing Power Infrastructure at Addis Ababa Bole International Airport
Khatib & Alami (K&A) was appointed by Ethiopian Airlines Group (EAG) as the Main Consultant for the airport energy infrastructure modernization project at Addis Ababa Bole International Airport in Ethiopia. The project focused on assessing, rehabilitating, and upgrading the existing power distribution system serving the airport and associated operational facilities. Completed in 2025, the assignment reflects K&A’s expertise in delivering complex infrastructure solutions that enhance the safety, efficiency, and long-term resilience of critical aviation assets.
The project addressed medium- and low-voltage power networks that had operated for more than a decade without major upgrades. Over time, aging infrastructure contributed to operational inefficiencies, rising energy costs, and increased safety risks across airport operations. K&A conducted a comprehensive technical assessment and developed a long-term framework for modernizing the airport’s power infrastructure in support of Ethiopian Airlines Group’s future expansion and operational growth.
Strengthening Airport Power Infrastructure for Long-Term Resilience
As Africa’s leading national carrier continues to expand its regional and international operations, the reliability of its energy infrastructure has become increasingly critical. The project focused on developing a resilient and future-ready electrical network capable of supporting continuous airport operations, improving operational efficiency, and meeting evolving aviation demands.
Subhankar Bhattacharya, Director – Renewable Energy, explained: “We are proud to deliver this project for Africa’s leading national carrier, Ethiopian Airlines Group, in support of its strong commitment to operational excellence. Built on close collaboration and a shared vision, the project enabled us to align our technical solutions with the Group’s broader objectives for growth and performance.”
Through detailed data collection, site inspections, system modeling, and technical analysis, K&A evaluated the condition and performance of substations, switchgear, transformers, underground cabling, protection systems, and distribution networks. The study also considered future operational requirements and infrastructure expansion to ensure the proposed upgrades would support a coordinated, scalable modernization strategy rather than isolated short-term interventions.
Airport Energy Infrastructure Modernization in Addis Ababa
A key component of the assignment involved developing resilient and optimized engineering solutions aimed at improving power quality, reducing system losses, and strengthening operational continuity. K&A prepared updated single-line diagrams, demand forecasting studies, and loss-reduction strategies, while also developing technical specifications and tender documentation to support the implementation phase.
The project additionally included a techno-economic feasibility study for large-scale ground-mounted and rooftop Solar PV systems, reinforcing Ethiopian Airlines Group’s commitment to airport energy infrastructure modernization. By integrating renewable energy considerations into the broader upgrade strategy, the project supports long-term energy efficiency and enhances the resilience of aviation infrastructure across Africa.
Supporting Mission-Critical Operations Across Multiple Facilities
The assignment covered several strategic operational sites, including Ethiopian Airlines’ head office, airport facilities, maintenance and repair centers, cargo operations, aviation university, and catering facilities. This multidisciplinary scope highlights K&A’s ability to deliver integrated advisory and engineering services across complex environments where operational continuity, reliability, and safety are essential.
Looking ahead, Ghassan Bassam, General Manager – Ethiopia, highlighted K&A’s broader regional commitment: “Our work with Ethiopian Airlines Group exemplifies our long-term commitment to Africa and our strategy of delivering resilient infrastructure solutions that strengthen critical operations while supporting communities and fostering sustainable growth across the continent.”
The project reinforces K&A’s role as a trusted partner in infrastructure modernization, helping clients build resilient, energy-efficient facilities prepared to meet the evolving demands of the aviation sector.