Air traffic in Albania is expected to see an 18.3% increase by 2026, with Tirana International Airport projected to handle over 13.5 million passengers.

This was announced by the Minister of Infrastructure and Energy, Enea Karakaçi, during a visit to Tirana International Airport. He praised the expansion of low-cost airlines, describing it as a positive indicator for the development of aviation in the country.

According to the Minister, the liberalization of the air transport market and the reduction of passenger fees - from 10 euros to 1 euro - have contributed to increased traffic and a broader range of air destinations.

Karakaçi emphasized that TIA remains the largest in the region, and the projections for 2026 point to significant growth compared to previous years.

He also highlighted investments made by Albcontrol in human capital and technology, aimed at ensuring safe air traffic management and navigation amidst a rising number of flights. “Naturally, to enable air traffic control and navigation, Albcontrol - the state-owned air traffic management company - has made all the necessary investments, both in human capital and technology, to ensure that this traffic continues and is managed in the best possible way,” he said.

Another point highlighted by the minister was that the target of handling over 13.5 million passengers by 2026 is expected to be reached without any incentives or financial support from the Albanian government for airlines - a departure from the practices followed in several other countries.