New Runway Opens in Ambrolauri Airport

On October 6, 2016, the Prime Minister of Georgia opened a new runway in Ambrolauri, mountainous western Georgia. PM Giorgi Kvirikashvili was a passenger of the first aircraft to land on the 110 x 30-meter runway strip, which has the capacity to accommodate the 19-seat type L 410 aircraft.

“The opening of the runway is the starting point of a new stage of Racha-Lechkhumi development,” the PM said, congratulating the local community on the event.

"A month ago, when I visited the farmers here, it was an empty field. Today, an airdrome is here. It creates new possibilities for this region and its residents by introducing new flights and enabling tourists to visit Racha and return to the capital city in less than one hour throughout the year," Kvirikashvili said.

He also noted that many tourists will visit the region in the near future as, alongside development of the airdrome infrastructure, new family-style hotels are to be established and winter resorts to be created.

The construction of a completely new passenger terminal will be finalized by the end of the year. The investment cost of the project is over GEL 10 million.

"This is just the first step. We have major plans regarding the development of resorts, including the Shovi and Utsera areas. A road will be constructed, since the airport alone will not be enough for the region- the Gomi-Sachkhere-Racha highway. These are tangible plans, not just promises. A similar airdrome will be built in Akhalkalaki, Zugdidi, and many other regions. This airdrome symbolizes the beginning of a new stage of spatial development not only in Racha-Lechkhumi, but across all Georgia," Kvirikashvili stated.

125 persons were employed in the construction process, 75 of whom were local residents. Ambrolauri Airport will be equipped with modern technologies and special vehicles. Over 30 persons are currently employed there.

Natia Liparteliani