Tirana International Airport (TIA/LATI): Your Ultimate Guide to Albania’s Fastest-Growing Gateway
Tirana International Airport Nënë Tereza (TIA), identified by its IATA code TIA and ICAO code LATI, stands as the sole international gateway to Albania and the primary aviation hub for the Balkan nation. Located in Rinas, approximately 11 km (7 miles) northwest of the capital city, TIA has rapidly transformed into one of Europe’s fastest-growing airports.
The airport serves as the key base for low-cost giant Wizz Air and the national carrier Air Albania, facilitating the country’s booming tourism and economic development.
Record-Breaking Growth and Infrastructure:
TIA has cemented its position as a major European player by setting consecutive passenger records. In a landmark achievement, the airport handled over 10.7 million passengers in 2024, marking a substantial increase and establishing TIA as one of the fastest-recovering and growing airports in Europe since the pre-pandemic era.
Furthermore, the airport is undergoing a massive transformation under the management of the Kastrati Group, with over €100 million invested in the first three years. The terminal area has been significantly expanded, and future plans, including a total investment of €140 million by 2040, aim to construct a new runway capable of handling intercontinental flights, including routes to the USA.
TIA: A Hub of Modern Facilities and Enhanced Passenger Services
Tirana International Airport features a modern, expanded main terminal designed to offer a seamless journey for millions of passengers. The recent expansion has tripled the terminal space, improving efficiency and reducing congestion.
| Service Category | Details and Enhancements |
| Connectivity & Comfort | Free, high-speed Wi-Fi is available throughout the terminal. The Tirana Airport Business Lounge offers a quiet, comfortable space away from the main terminal crowds. |
| Premium Services | For the first time in Albania, the airport offers a Private Terminal & Exclusive Club, providing tailored VIP services for ultimate privacy and comfort. |
| Retail & Dining | A diverse selection of cafes, fast-food outlets, and sit-down restaurants. Don’t miss the extensive duty-free shopping options, including the well-known Aelia Duty Free store, offering competitive prices on liquor, cosmetics, and souvenirs. |
| Financial Amenities | Currency exchange services, banks, and ATMs are available. Payments are widely accepted in both the local currency (Albanian Lek – ALL) and Euros (EUR). |
| Car Rental | Major international and local rental desks are located in the arrivals hall, including Hertz, Avis, Sixt, Enterprise, and Europcar. |
Seamless Transportation: Getting To and From TIA
Traveling between the airport and Tirana’s city center is straightforward with multiple well-organized options:
- Bus (Rinas Express): The most economical option. The bus runs regularly between the airport and the Tirana city center (near Skanderbeg Square). The journey takes approximately 20-30 minutes and costs around €4.
- Taxi: Official taxis are readily available outside the terminal. A ride to Tirana takes about 15-20 minutes and costs between €20 and €25. It is recommended to confirm the price before departure.
- Car and Parking: TIA offers over 2,600 parking spaces for both short-term and long-term stays. Daily parking rates typically range from €5 to €10. The parking area is equipped with electric vehicle (EV) charging stations.
- Future Rail Link: Plans are underway for the construction of a light rail link connecting TIA to the Tirana-Durrës railway line, promising even faster public transport access in the near future.
Connecting Albania to the World: TIA Airlines and 100+ Destinations
Tirana International Airport offers direct flights to over 100 destinations across Europe, the Middle East, and beyond, driven by strong growth from both flag carriers and low-cost airlines.
| Key Airlines & Major Connections | Recent Developments & Hubs |
| Low-Cost Leaders | Wizz Air dominates the market with over 56 routes, connecting Tirana to major European cities like Milan, Rome, London (Stansted & Gatwick), Dortmund, and Vienna. Ryanair has recently made TIA a major focus, announcing significant expansion plans and a potential base, adding key routes like Dublin, Manchester, and Bratislava. |
| Full-Service Carriers | Turkish Airlines (Istanbul), Air Albania, Lufthansa (Frankfurt/Munich), British Airways (London Heathrow), Austrian Airlines (Vienna), Air France (Seasonal Paris CDG), ITA Airways (Rome). |
| New and Strategic Routes (2024/2025) | The airport has welcomed new services and destinations including Madrid (Iberia), Dubai (Flydubai), and increased connections to Germany (e.g., Stuttgart, Cologne) and Spain (e.g., Malaga). |
| Future Outlook | The airport’s strategic importance means continuous route development, making TIA a vital hub for tourism and business travel in the Balkans. |
Exploring Albania: Start Your Adriatic Adventure from Tirana Airport
TIA’s location provides excellent access to Albania’s rich historical sites and stunning natural beauty.
- Tirana: Just a short drive away, explore iconic landmarks like Skanderbeg Square, the colorful Blloku district, the historic Et’hem Bey Mosque, and the panoramic views from the Dajti Ekspres (cable car to Mount Dajti National Park).
- Coastal Trips: The airport is strategically positioned to launch trips to the Adriatic coast. The ancient city of Durrës, known for its beautiful beaches and Roman amphitheater, is only a 30-minute drive away. Further south, the Albanian Riviera offers pristine beaches like those in Vlorë and Ksamil, easily accessible via the main highway system.
Contact and Operational Information
For the most accurate flight status and operational details, always consult the official website.
- Official Name: Tirana International Airport Nënë Tereza
- Address: Rinas, Tirana, Albania
- IATA/ICAO Codes: TIA / LATI
- Phone: +355 4 2381600 (General Enquiries)
- Website: www.tirana-airport.com