Welcome to Tirana International Airport

About Tirana International Airport Nënë Tereza

Tirana International Airport Nënë Tereza (IATA code: TIA, ICAO code: LATI) serves as Albania's primary aviation gateway and largest airport. Named after Mother Teresa, the Albanian-born humanitarian and Nobel Peace Prize laureate, the facility handles over 10 million passengers annually—a remarkable achievement that positions it among Europe's fastest-growing airports.

Located 17 kilometers northwest of central Tirana in Rinas village, the airport connects Albania to 95+ destinations across Europe and beyond. The airport features a modern passenger terminal that was renovated and expanded to meet growing demand. The terminal offers comprehensive facilities including duty-free shopping, restaurants, cafes, and comfortable waiting areas. The airport also has cargo facilities and aircraft maintenance areas to support various aviation operations.

A Modern Gateway to Albania

The airport's journey from a modest communist-era facility to a world-class international hub reflects Albania's transformation. Construction of Rinas Airport occurred from 1955 to 1957, initially serving limited Soviet bloc airlines with minimal daily flights. Political isolation in the 1970s further restricted operations when Albania severed ties with the Soviet Union.

The collapse of communism in 1991 opened Albania to international travel, causing passenger numbers to explode from minimal traffic to hundreds of thousands annually. Recognizing infrastructure limitations, the Albanian government tendered for international investors to construct a new terminal in 2003. German airport operator Hochtief won the concession in 2004, investing over €100 million to deliver a completely new passenger terminal designed by Malaysian architect Hin Tan, completed in 2007.

Today, the airport operates under the management of Tirana International Airport SHPK, owned by the Kastrati Group—a leading Albanian company that acquired 100% ownership in December 2020 for €71 million. This marks a return to Albanian control after years under foreign management, with investments focused on modernizing facilities, expanding capacity from 5 million to 11 million passengers annually, and positioning Tirana as a major Balkan aviation hub.

Record-Breaking Growth

On December 9, 2024, Tirana Airport celebrated a historic milestone: surpassing 10 million passengers annually for the first time. This represents an extraordinary 48% growth rate over 2023, making it one of Europe's fastest-expanding airports. The success stems from Albania's growing tourism industry, increased business connectivity, and the strategic expansion of low-cost carrier operations.

Wizz Air operates its largest base at Tirana with an extensive European network, while Ryanair announced plans to open a new Tirana base in summer 2026, significantly expanding routes. This budget airline competition delivers affordable fares and increased connectivity for Albanian travelers and international visitors alike. Over 20 airlines now serve the airport, connecting passengers to major European hubs including London, Frankfurt, Istanbul, Rome, Vienna, and Munich.

Terminal Facilities and Services

Operating 24 hours daily, the terminal offers comprehensive amenities designed for passenger comfort and convenience. The departures level features 29 check-in counters plus self-service kiosks that expedite processing for passengers without checked bags. After checking in, passengers pass through modern security screening that processes travelers efficiently using state-of-the-art equipment.

Beyond security, the airside area houses all seven boarding gates within easy walking distance, along with Aelia Duty Free—a premium shopping experience featuring international brands and Albanian specialties. Multiple restaurants and cafés serve everything from quick snacks to full meals, while the VIP Business Lounge provides a premium facility with complimentary food, beverages, showers, and high-speed WiFi for eligible passengers.

The arrivals level on the ground floor welcomes international passengers with streamlined immigration control—Albanian citizens enjoy dedicated fast lanes, while EU and Schengen passport holders typically process quickly through automated gates when available. Multiple baggage claim carousels distribute luggage efficiently, with electronic screens indicating which carousel serves each flight. ATMs, currency exchange offices, and a Vodafone store for SIM cards are conveniently located throughout the arrivals hall.

Free WiFi and Digital Services

Complimentary high-speed WiFi reaches every corner of the terminal with no registration required and no time limits. Whether you need to check emails, stream entertainment, or video call loved ones, the robust network handles heavy traffic during peak periods. Charging stations at all gate seating areas and throughout main halls ensure your devices stay powered throughout your journey.

Getting To and From the Airport

Multiple transportation options connect Tirana Airport to the capital and surrounding regions, accommodating different budgets and schedules. Official taxi service by Auto Holiday Albania operates 24/7 from stands outside the arrivals exit, charging fixed rates around €22-25 to central Tirana with a journey time of 20-30 minutes depending on traffic.

Airport Express buses operated by LUNA shpk depart hourly, 24 hours daily, from designated stops outside arrivals. Service terminates at Tirana National Theatre of Opera and Ballet in the city center, averaging 30 minutes journey time for just 400 Lek (€3.50). This represents excellent value for budget-conscious travelers.

Major car rental companies including Hertz, Europcar, and Avis maintain desks in the arrivals hall, with rental vehicles parked in a dedicated zone adjacent to the main parking area. Representatives escort customers to their reserved vehicles, making the pickup process quick and straightforward.

For those driving, the airport maintains three parking zones totaling 2,600 spaces—all within easy walking distance requiring no shuttle buses. P1 short-term parking sits directly opposite the terminal entrance just a 2-minute walk away, while P2 long-term and P3 economy lots offer budget-friendly options with covered walkways. Motorcycle parking is free in designated areas near the main entrance, and reserved spaces closest to terminal doors accommodate disabled passengers.

Future Development and Rail Connection

Exciting infrastructure improvements lie ahead. An electrified light rail line between Tirana and Durrës will include an airport station, with construction targeting completion in 2027. This rail link will provide fast, affordable access from the city center, with plans showing the station connecting directly to the terminal building via covered walkway—eliminating the need to navigate traffic or wait for buses.

Long-term development plans include potential second terminal construction or major expansion of existing facilities to accommodate continued passenger growth. Current expansion has increased capacity from 5 million to 11 million passengers annually, with future plans targeting 15 million passenger capacity. The airport positions itself to compete with major regional hubs in Greece, North Macedonia, and Montenegro as a premier Balkan aviation gateway.

Special Assistance Services

Passengers with reduced mobility, disabilities, or special needs receive comprehensive support throughout their airport journey. Services include wheelchair provision, escort through check-in and security, assistance at passport control, priority boarding, and help with baggage. Request assistance when booking tickets—ideally 48 hours before departure—to ensure appropriate resources are allocated, though emergency arrangements work too by approaching any information desk upon arrival.

The airport maintains barrier-free facilities including elevators connecting all levels, wheelchair-accessible toilets throughout, ramps eliminating stairs, and dedicated security lanes for passengers with medical equipment. Staff receive regular training in disability awareness and assistance techniques, ensuring professional, respectful support. Contact special assistance services at (+355) 4 238 1800 or email [email protected].

Lost and Found Services

The Lost and Found office located in the arrivals hall collects items discovered throughout terminal facilities. Security personnel, cleaning staff, and airport workers turn in found belongings daily, maintaining these items for several months. Report lost items quickly to improve recovery chances by calling (+355) 69 20 66 626 or emailing [email protected].

Important note: items left on aircraft should be reported directly to your airline—not the airport. Aircraft cleaning crews forward discovered items to airline offices rather than airport facilities. Have your flight number, seat assignment, and booking reference ready when calling your carrier's customer service.

Business and Commercial Opportunities

The airport's explosive growth creates ongoing employment opportunities across customer service, security, operations, maintenance, administration, and commercial services. Positions range from entry-level to management roles. Check the official careers portal for current openings or contact [email protected].

Premium advertising locations throughout the terminal reach thousands of affluent travelers daily, with billboard spaces, digital screens, and experiential marketing opportunities available. Retail space periodically becomes available for shops, restaurants, cafés, and service providers. Contact [email protected] for business inquiries.

Why Choose Tirana Airport?

Whether you're an Albanian returning home, a tourist discovering the Balkans' hidden gem, or a business traveler exploring opportunities, Tirana International Airport offers a welcoming, efficient gateway. The combination of modern facilities, growing route network, competitive pricing through low-cost carriers, and Albania's stunning attractions makes TIA an increasingly popular choice for European travel.

Beyond the airport, visitors discover a country of remarkable contrasts—from pristine Adriatic and Ionian beaches to rugged mountain ranges, from ancient Illyrian ruins to Ottoman architecture, from UNESCO World Heritage sites to vibrant contemporary culture. Nearby Krujë Castle sits just 20 minutes north, while Durrës beaches stretch along the coast 30 minutes west. Tirana's city center, reachable in 25 minutes, buzzes with colorful buildings, trendy restaurants, and a youthful energy that surprises first-time visitors.