Georgia bets big on tourism with massive airport expansion plan

Georgia has announced an ambitious expansion of its aviation infrastructure, with plans to upgrade all three of its international airports and build a new major airport in Vaziani as the country prepares for continued growth in tourist arrivals.

Prime Minister Irakli Kobakhidze outlined the initiative during an interview with Imedi TV, saying the government is investing in long-term aviation capacity to meet rising demand.

According to Kobakhidze, expansion projects are underway at the country's international airports in Tbilisi, Kutaisi, and Batumi, while construction of a new airport in Vaziani is expected to begin by the end of 2027.

"In Tbilisi, we have begun expanding the existing airport, which will increase its passenger capacity to 10 million people per year. At the same time, construction of a new airport in Vaziani will begin by the end of next year, with a projected capacity of 20 million passengers annually. This is necessary for our country in light of the growing flow of tourists," Kobakhidze said.

The prime minister added that discussions on expanding Batumi International Airport are continuing, while Kutaisi International Airport will be upgraded to accommodate up to 5 million passengers annually.

By Vafa Guliyeva