Prime Minister Irakli Kobakhidze says Telavi Airport will enter service in 2028. Under the government’s plan, construction of the airport is expected to begin by the end of this year, although the United Airports of Georgia has not yet signed a contract with a construction company.
“Construction of the Telavi and Mestia airports is in an active implementation phase. In 2028, both the renovated Mestia Airport and the new Telavi Airport will enter service. Telavi Airport will essentially be used for domestic air traffic. Once both projects are completed, each airport will be able to serve 50,000 passengers annually,” Kobakhidze said.
In September 2026, a GEL 15 million tender for construction of the new Mestia terminal failed after no companies submitted bids during the September 25–30 submission period. The project envisages a new 950-square-meter terminal with modern facade and glazing systems, including waiting and check-in areas, departure and arrival halls, baggage handling zones, a security control area and office space. Development of a 11,600-square-meter site, including parking, is also planned.
As for Telavi Airport, only Buildking LLC submitted a bid. The company offered GEL 11.65 million, GEL 1.62 million below the estimated cost. The tender covers construction of the new passenger terminal, with works to be completed within no more than 21 months from the signing of the contract, including the handover process.
