Vlora International Airport

Vlora International Airport (Albanian: Aeroporti Ndërkombëtar i Vlorës, IATA: VLO, ICAO: LAVL) is Albania's third international airport, located near the village of Akërni, approximately 10 kilometres north of Vlorë. The airport will serve as a key transportation hub for southern Albania and the Albanian Riviera, facilitating both passenger and cargo flights. History The Albanian government announced plans for Vlora International Airport in 2019, aiming to boost tourism and economic development in the southern region. Construction officially commenced in November 2021, following a concession agreement with a consortium comprising Mabco Constructions, the Turkish YDA Group, and the Kosovar 2A Group Shpk. The airport was built on a 309-hectare site, previously used as a military airstrip. The project faced delays due to the COVID-19 pandemic but resumed progress in 2021. On May 8, 2025, Vlora International Airport achieved a significant milestone with the successful landing of its first certification flight. The event was attended by high-ranking officials, including Prime Minister Edi Rama and Minister of Infrastructure and Energy Belinda Balluku. This certification flight marked the completion of rigorous testing and regulatory procedures, paving the way for the commencement of commercial operations. Vlora International Airport features a single runway (12/30) measuring 3,200 metres in length and 60 metres in width, capable of accommodating wide-body aircraft such as the Airbus A330 and Boeing 777. The terminal building spans 22,000 m2 (240,000 sq ft), significantly larger than initially planned, to accommodate projected passenger growth. The airport incorporates sustainability measures, including solar panels generating 5.2 MWh of renewable energy. The airport's elevation is approximately 2.5 metres above sea level, a design choice made to mitigate flooding risks in the low-lying coastal area. Environmental concerns The construction of the airport has raised environmental concerns due to its proximity to the Narta and Karavasta lagoons, which are critical habitats for migratory birds. Environmentalists argue that the airport's development could disrupt these ecosystems and violate national and international biodiversity protection laws. The Albanian government has stated that protective measures will be implemented to mitigate environmental impacts. There is a lack of information on measures to benefit bird diversity close to Vlora International Airport, despite the recognized ecological sensitivity of the area. Airlines and destinations Due to certification delays, no flights are scheduled to operate in summer 2026. Economic Impact and Real Estate Development The construction of the airport has been identified as a significant factor in the projected development of the regional real estate market. Analysts anticipate that improved international accessibility will likely drive demand for tourism-related infrastructure and residential properties across the Albanian Riviera. See also Transport in Albania List of airports in Albania Tirana International Airport Nënë Tereza Kukës International Airport Zayed References