Tirana airport served 9,260,167 passengers in the January-October period, up 54% on an annual comparison basis, the airport operator, TIA, said.

In October alone, passenger numbers rose 48% on the year, to 936,521, TIA said in a notice on Monday. Wizz Air was passengers’ preferred airline in the period from January through October, holding 53.6% of the Albanian flight market, followed by Ryanair with 22.3%, and Air Albania with 3.5%.

In 2023, Tirana airport welcomed 7.26 million passengers, 40% more than a year earlier. Key factors behind this growth include the entry of new airlines and an increase in international destinations, which jumped from 109 in 2023 to 136 in 2024. Low-cost carriers like Ryanair and Wizz Air have made Albania more accessible, offering frequent, affordable flights to cities like London, Paris, and Vienna.

In addition, Vlora Airport, set to be completed by 2025, is poised to further enhance Albania’s aviation sector. Equipped with a 3.2 km runway and capable of handling transoceanic flights, the new airport will help Albania attract travelers from North America and Asia, broadening its reach in the global market.

These advancements in aviation infrastructure are key to Albania’s rise as a tourism destination. With more destinations and upgraded facilities, the country is on a promising trajectory to welcome even more international visitors in the years to come.

The rapid growth in air travel signals Albania’s transformation into a key player in the regional tourism market. Airport expansions and the introduction of new airlines have boosted Albania’s appeal, enhancing its global connectivity. This surge could increase tourism revenues, generate thousands of jobs, and secure Albania’s place as a strategic travel hub.