Prime Minister Irakli Kobakhidze says construction of Vaziani Airport will definitely begin by the end of next year, although the project’s financing model has yet to be decided.
Asked by BMG why the airport’s costs are not included in the initial draft of the 2027 state budget, Kobakhidze said the government is considering three options: full state funding, private investment, or a mixed model. A final decision will be made following consultations with potential investors.
“Construction is scheduled to begin in December next year, so significant construction costs will not be incurred during 2027, apart from initial expenses in December. The process will continue, and construction of Vaziani Airport will definitely begin by the end of next year,” Kobakhidze said.
He added that the airport tender would be conducted transparently and openly, with the contract awarded to the bidder offering the best terms. The government welcomes broad investor interest, he said, as greater competition would help maximize the state’s benefits from the project.
Funding for Vaziani Airport is not included in the 2027 draft budget. The project previously featured in the 2025 capital investment plan, which envisaged GEL 340 million in state budget expenditure between 2025 and 2028. However, no funding was allocated in the 2026 capital projects plan or the initial draft of the 2027 budget.
