Today, we are laying the foundation for a brand new and critically important chapter in the development of Shota Rustaveli Tbilisi International Airport [TIA]. Minister of Economy and Sustainable Development of Georgia said this at an event celebrating the launch of the airport`s expansion project.

"TIA represents far more than mere transport infrastructure… It is one of the principal pillars driving Georgia`s economic growth, tourism expansion, investment attraction, trade, and global connectivity. Consequently, its advancement is a task of strategic national importance.

Our long-standing collaboration with Groupe ADP, one of the world`s top aviation conglomerates and the parent group of TAV Airports, is entering a dynamic new phase today.

The expansion of the transport and logistics sector is a vital priority for the state, with the aviation industry playing a key role in bolstering economic growth, international connectivity, and transit capabilities.

Aviation directly drives tourism, attracts foreign investment, expands trade, strengthens businesses, and creates new jobs. This is precisely why the state has channeled significant efforts into broadening Georgia’s aviation market in recent years.

43 new airlines have launched operations in the Georgian aviation market over the past 5 years.

This year, for the first time in history, direct air links have connected the capitals of the Kingdom of Denmark and Georgia, with Norwegian Air entering the market. Furthermore, in just two days, China Eastern, the third largest Chinese airline, will commence operations in Georgia, running direct flights between Tbilisi and Shanghai three times a week.

Today, the Georgian aviation sector has reached an all-time high, with 85 airlines operating flights to 125 destinations. This improves accessibility, sharpens competition, and supports the sustainable, diversified growth of our country`s tourism sector.

Given the geopolitical climate in the region, 2026 presents numerous challenges, not least for the aviation and tourism industries.

However, it is precisely in this environment that Georgia`s ability to maintain high growth rates and retain the trust of international partners becomes exceptionally meaningful. Recent data bears this out.

In June alone, Georgia`s airports collectively served nearly 788,000 passengers, marking a 4% increase compared to the corresponding period of 2025. Furthermore, passenger traffic at Batumi International Airport grew by 3% last month… In 2025, Georgian airports served a record-breaking total of 8.5 million passengers, representing a 14% increase year-on-year. The number of flights also hit a historic milestone, with nearly 38,000 flights operated, a 16% increase over 2024. The air freight sector is also particularly noteworthy, having registered a phenomenal 49% surge", - said Mariam Kvrivishvili.