Vlora AirportVLO
Vlora International Airport is Albania's newest airport, providing direct access to the Albanian Riviera and the southern coast.
About the airport
Vlora Airport is Albania's third international airport, located approximately 10 km north of the city of Vlorë. This €140 million infrastructure project is the largest in southern Albania. The airport received its IATA code VLO in 2025, with the first certification flight completed in May 2025. Commercial operations are expected to launch in summer 2026.
Its 3.2 km runway – the longest in the Balkans – can accommodate wide-body aircraft. The terminal is designed for 2 million passengers annually. The airport will cut travel time to the Riviera by over 3 hours compared to the route via Tirana, providing direct access to Himarë, Saranda, and Butrint.
Location
Nearby cities
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March 15, 2026Popular questions
Quick answers about transfers, routes and preparing for arrival or departure.
When will Vlora Airport open?+
Commercial flights are expected to begin in summer 2026. Chair Airlines has already announced Zurich–Vlora flights starting 26 June 2026.
Which airlines will fly to Vlora?+
Air Albania plans to establish a hub here. Ryanair, Wizz Air, and easyJet have expressed interest. Chair Airlines has confirmed Zurich flights.
What is Vlora Airport's IATA code?+
Vlora Airport's IATA code is VLO, assigned in April 2025.
Why is a new airport being built in Vlora?+
To provide direct access to the Albanian Riviera and southern Albania, cutting travel time from Tirana by over 3 hours.
What is the airport's passenger capacity?+
Initial capacity is 2 million passengers per year, with plans to expand to 10 million within 10 years.
How do I get from Vlora Airport to Saranda?+
By car along the coastal road, it takes about 2–2.5 hours — much faster than the 4–5 hour drive from Tirana.