Albania’s new airport in Vlora is about to open – a prestige project offering opportunities for tourism, the economy and criticism from environmentalists.

An ambitious infrastructure project in the southern coastal region of Albania will soon become a reality: Vlora International Airport is about to be officially opened. The modern airport is not only expected to boost tourism, but also to become a symbol of Albania’s economic awakening.

An airport with ambitions

The new airport is located about ten kilometers northeast of Vlora and is designed for an annual capacity of more than one million passengers. With a runway of 3.2 kilometers, the airport meets international standards and can also handle wide-body aircraft. The planned facilities include modern terminals, cargo areas and efficient connections to the national road network.

“Vlora Airport is a strategic project for the south of the country – economically, in terms of tourism and geopolitically,” explained Prime Minister Edi Rama in a statement during a construction site visit in early March.

Focus on tourism and the economy

The construction was implemented in collaboration with international investors and is intended in particular to promote tourism on the Albanian Riviera. Regions such as Dhërmi, Himara and Ksamil are among the most popular destinations on the Ionian Sea – but until now, getting there was complicated and time-consuming.

The new airport should also enable direct international connections – particularly from Germany, Italy, Switzerland and the Nordic countries. According to the project developers, the first commercial flights could take off as early as summer 2025.

Environmental issues and criticism

Despite the positive economic expectations, the project is not without controversy. Environmental organizations such as EuroNatur have already warned of possible encroachment on an ecologically sensitive wetland near the airport. However, the Albanian government has assured that all requirements have been met and environmental protection standards have been taken into account.

A milestone for the south

Vlora International Airport is the third largest airport in Albania – in addition to Tirana International Airport and the small airport in Kukës. For many residents of the southern part of the country, the new hub not only means shorter distances, but also economic prospects.

As reported by the platform albaniafaq.com, the airport is expected to be fully completed and officially opened in the coming months. An exact date has not yet been announced, but the opening is expected before the start of the summer season in 2025.