Infrastructure and Energy Minister Enea Karakaçi presented a bill to ratify the Convention on the Bureau of the European Civil Aviation Conference.
He said the agreement will allow Albania to join a new European civil aviation governance structure.
The convention will strengthen Albania’s representation in international aviation forums. It will also increase technical cooperation with European partners and support the integration of Albania’s aviation sector into the European air transport area.
Karakaçi said Albania’s air transport sector has entered a new phase of rapid growth. Passenger numbers at Tirana International Airport increased 3.5 times between 2019 and the end of 2025. The number of flights also rose 2.5 times.
Authorities expect passenger numbers to reach 13.7 million in 2026. By 2040, Albanian airports could handle around 24 million passengers.
The minister said Albania aims to become a regional air transport hub. He added that this goal would support tourism, the economy, and European integration.
Market liberalization has brought more destinations and competitive fares. The arrival of low-cost airlines such as Ryanair and Wizz Air has also increased competition and improved access to air travel.
Albania now offers 119 destinations operated by 44 airlines. In 2019, the country had only 37 destinations.
Karakaçi also highlighted progress in passenger rights and aviation safety. He said delays of more than three hours fell by 55% in 2025. Flight cancellations also dropped from 80 to 50.
Finally, Karakaçi said ratifying the convention would strengthen Albania’s role in European civil aviation. It would also give the country a greater voice in shaping future aviation policies and standards.
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