On May 9, the Prime Minister of Albania, Edi Rama, visited Tirana International Airport (TIA), where he was briefed on the latest investments completed in a record time of just three months. Recent transformations include the construction of a new iconic facade, further expansion of the airport infrastructure, increased parking capacity and other key improvements that have completely transformed the appearance and functionality of the airport.
During the visit, the Prime Minister congratulated the Kastrati Group and the Tirana International Airport team on the successful implementation of this transformation. He was accompanied by the President of the Kastrati Group, Mr. Šefćet Kastrati, renowned Italian architect Marco Casamonti, and airport managers.
Prime Minister Rama praised the investments, noting that they come at a time when the airport is recording one of the highest growth rates in Europe. He emphasized that, with these changes, Tirana International Airport is now becoming one of the most beautiful and unique airports in Europe.
"Incredible. It will be the most beautiful in Europe, and it also provides a significant expansion of terminal space," the prime minister said.
The President of Kastrati Group, Mr. Shefqet Kastrati, underlined the company's commitment to transforming the airport into a regional air traffic hub, known for the quality of its infrastructure and services.
"These changes are part of a long-term and sustainable strategy for the development of Tirana International Airport. To date, we have invested over 150 million euros in improving infrastructure, increasing capacity and establishing a new standard for air transport in Albania. This is just the beginning of an even greater transformation that we plan for the coming years," said Mr. Kastrati.
One of the most striking elements of architect Casamonti's project is the new facade of the airport, which adds a completely new dimension and creates a stunning visual impression – especially at night – illuminated by special lighting and projections. The Italian architect emphasized that the facade is inspired by traditional Albanian motifs and blended with contemporary architecture to create a unique aesthetic and cultural identity. Now all that is missing is the red glass, and this entire square will resemble the red Albanian flag, stretching half a kilometer in length, with granite, marble and a moving eagle," he explained.
The facade covers an area of 40.000 m² and, in addition to its aesthetic function, plays a key role in improving passenger flow and protecting against weather conditions.
In addition, a new modern parking structure was built, adding 1.000 new spaces directly connected to the terminal on an area of 28.000 m². This brings the total number of parking spaces to 3.000. This project was completed within three months to meet the growing passenger traffic during the summer season.
(Aerodrom Tirana)
