Prime Minister Edi Rama announced today that in just three days—on May 8—the first aircraft will touch down on Vlora International Airport’s newly coded VLO runway, marking the start of gradual opening tests ahead of final certification.

Built on 309 hectares with a 3.2 km runway designed for wide-body 4E aircraft such as the Airbus A330/A340 and Boeing 777, Vlora International Airport represents a €104 million investment. The project will generate 1,200 jobs and establish Albania’s second international airport alongside Tirana’s Mother Teresa Airport.

A dedicated Aviation Academy on site will train future pilots and aviation professionals. In addition to passenger services, the facility will handle cargo operations, positioning Vlora as a strategic air hub for both tourism and freight along Albania’s southern coast.

/a.p./