Albania’s Rinas Airport records 10 million passengers in first 11 months of 2024
From January to Monday, December 11, Tirana International Airport (Rinas) marked a historic milestone, serving its 10 millionth passenger.
Why is this important: While many international airports experienced a decline in passenger numbers following the COVID-19 pandemic, Rinas has bucked the trend, consistently showing year-on-year growth. The airport continues to lead regional rankings in passenger increases, reflecting Albania’s rising profile as a travel and business destination. It is also playing a significant role in Albania’s tourism boom.
Context: The management of Tirana International Airport, in collaboration with Albania’s Ministry of Infrastructure and Energy, has set an ambitious target for 2025: surpassing 12 million passengers. This goal aligns with Albania’s broader efforts to enhance its aviation infrastructure.
A major development expected in 2025 is the opening of Vlora International Airport, which is anticipated to further boost competition and lead to lower flight costs for travelers to and from Albania.
Not only have passenger numbers surged at Rinas, but Albania is also witnessing record-breaking tourist arrivals. Official data reveals that by November 2023, the country welcomed 11 million foreign visitors, underlining Albania’s growing appeal as a travel destination.
Looking ahead: The combined growth in aviation traffic and tourism underscores Albania’s transformation into a regional hub for travel and commerce. As the nation prepares to expand its airport infrastructure, it is well-positioned to attract even more visitors and investors in the years to come.
Go deeper
EU allocates €13 million to modernize Albania’s ground forces
Published on December 18, 2024
Why is this important: Since joining NATO in 2009, Albania has increased its defense budget but remains below the 3% GDP benchmark required by the alliance for member states. International financial support, such as this EU grant, is essential for strengthening Albania’s defense capabilities. This agreement is particularly significant as the EU appears open to funding additional defense and security projects proposed by the Albanian government, with potential approvals expected next year.
Albania establishes Administrative Office for Vjosa River National Park
Published on December 15, 2024
Why is this important: The Vjosa River is a unique ecological treasure, flowing freely across 272 kilometers from Greece to Albania’s Adriatic coast. Spanning 12,727 hectares, the park encompasses the river’s water surface, shoreline, and adjoining areas, as well as tributaries like the Drino, Bënçë, and Shushica rivers. It is Europe’s first wild river national park, home to over 1,100 species of fish, birds, and plants, including the critically endangered Balkan lynx, otters, and Egyptian vultures. This designation elevates Albania’s profile as a destination for eco-tourism while safeguarding a vital natural habitat against urbanization and other threats.
Albania to relaunch defense industry in 2025
Published on December 14, 2024
Why is this important: Reviving Albania’s defense industry marks a significant step toward increasing self-sufficiency and creating economic opportunities. By producing munitions and uniforms domestically, the government aims to reduce reliance on imports and generate revenue through partnerships with private companies. This initiative aligns with NATO practices and will allow Albania to modernize its defense infrastructure while addressing the longstanding issue of uniform production for its military and uniformed agencies.