Tbilisi Airport Enhances Comfort and Efficiency for Travelers

TAV Georgia reported significant infrastructure improvements at Tbilisi International Airport in response to the growing number of travelers. These changes aim to enhance passenger comfort and expedite procedures. Other airports in Georgia are also undergoing modernization and expansion.

The number of passport control points at Tbilisi International Airport has been increased from 9 to 13, and the area around the border control desks has been expanded from 640 to 925 square meters. In the departure terminal, the area has grown from 180 to 530 square meters, with a new express corridor for border access. These projects received over 4 million GEL in investment from TAV Georgia.

Record-Breaking Passenger Traffic in 2024

In 2024, Tbilisi Airport handled a record 4.7 million passengers, a 29% increase compared to 2023. Flight operations rose by 30%, reaching 22,715. Other Georgian airports also set new records:

Batumi International Airport served 951,760 passengers (+53%) and 4,144 flights (+33%).
Kutaisi Airport handled 1,722,809 passengers (+3%) and 5,078 flights (+1%), marking its busiest year ever.
In autumn 2024, construction began on a new 3.5 km runway at Kutaisi Airport, equipped with advanced navigation systems. The runway, compliant with the highest international standards, will accommodate passenger and cargo aircraft of any size. Completion is expected in spring 2026, after which the passenger terminal will be expanded to increase capacity from 1.7 million to 5 million passengers annually.

In total, Georgian airports served over 7.4 million passengers in 2024, a 24% increase from 2023, with flights totaling 31,937 (+25%). Irakli Karkashadze, CEO of the United Airports of Georgia, stated that agreements with 10 airlines covering 13 new routes were signed in 2024, and further progress is anticipated in 2025.

Plans for a New International Airport

Prime Minister Irakli Kobakhidze announced plans to construct a new international airport on the site of a former military airfield in Vaziani, 25 km from Tbilisi. According to Agenda, the first phase of construction is expected to be completed by 2029, followed by a second phase. The new airport will have an annual capacity of 18 million passengers.

Kobakhidze explained that the project is driven by the growing dynamics of the tourism sector. He emphasized that the current Tbilisi International Airport is unable to accommodate rising demand, necessitating infrastructure development and the creation of new facilities to meet travelers’ needs.

Tourism Growth and Economic Impact

According to the National Tourism Administration, international visitors to Georgia reached approximately 7.4 million in 2024, a 4.2% increase from 2023. Of these, nearly 5.1 million traveled for tourism purposes (+9%). The National Bank of Georgia reported that tourism revenue exceeded $4.4 billion in 2024, up 7.3% from $4.1 billion in 2023.

Further growth is expected in 2025 across all tourism segments. In Adjara alone, authorities forecast an increase in visits to 6 million. The region's tourism department plans to launch an international marketing campaign emphasizing its attractions beyond seaside vacations, such as mountain resorts and nature reserves, which remain underappreciated. A budget of 7.6 million GEL (approximately $2.7 million) has been allocated for this initiative.

Diverse and Dynamic Tourism in Georgia

Georgia offers a uniquely diverse range of travel experiences. Its stunning landscapes, developed infrastructure, and wealth of natural and historical attractions create ideal conditions for a variety of vacation preferences. As the country continues to invest in its aviation and tourism infrastructure, Georgia is solidifying its reputation as a premier global destination.