Telavi Airport could create significant new opportunities for tourism in Kakheti, says Keso Kobidze, Head of Sales at Anapea Village.
Speaking to BMG, Kobidze said the airport could help transform Kakheti from a destination for day trips from Tbilisi into an independent tourism destination where visitors stay for several days or even a week. Improved accessibility could benefit wine tourism, rural tourism, premium accommodation and gastronomic experiences.
However, she stressed that opening the airport alone would not guarantee success. The region also needs suitable flight routes, quality infrastructure and transport services, as well as effective international marketing. The benefits could extend beyond hotels and restaurants to local winemakers, producers and tour guides.
Meanwhile, BuildKings has won the tender to construct Telavi Airport’s passenger terminal with a bid of GEL 11.65 million, which is GEL 1.62 million below the estimated cost. The contract is currently being prepared.
Although the airport was initially expected to receive international status, the government later decided it would serve domestic flights only, citing plans for a new international airport in Vaziani, expected to open in 2031.
