Georgian Prime Minister Irakli Kobakhidze on Friday announced ?240 million ($88.25mln) would be invested in the first phase of new developments for Kutaisi International Airport in the country’s west.

The investment marks the commencement of the construction of a new 3.5-km-long runway and airport infrastructure.

During the ceremony for inserting a symbolic capsule in the construction, Kobakhidze emphasised the importance of airport development in facilitating the country's connectivity and transit capabilities.

Th[e investment] exceeds the total sum of all investments made in this Airport so far [...] as a total of ?200 million ($73.54mln) has been invested in this airport so far”, he said.

This is very important not only for Kutaisi Airport, but also for this region and our country as a whole [...] In the next stage of the Airport’s development, the passenger terminal will be expanded, resulting in an increase in passenger flow from 1.7 million to five million”, the Prime Minister added.

Kobakhidze noted the new runway was set to be constructed “in accordance with the highest international standards” and would feature “modern” navigation lighting equipment, enabling it to provide service for passenger and cargo aircraft “of any size”.

The Prime Minister also highlighted the “increasing number” of tourists and business visitors as “clear evidence” of the country’s economic development and “growing international significance”.

Kobakhidze said the Airport had served 1.2 million passengers in September, setting a new “historic record”.

The Airport operates 127 flights per week, with 86 of them being European destinations [...] Besides, Kutaisi Airport is a significant employer in the region, providing jobs to over 1,000 citizens. It plays a crucial role in incentivising the local population, especially young people, to learn new skills and become highly qualified professionals”, he said.

The Prime Minister added the Airport “significantly” contributed to the development of the airline industry, tourism, and the overall economy of the Imereti region and Georgia, adding “therefore, we are committed to continuously modernising [its] infrastructure both now and in the future”.

After the project is completed, we will have a modern, fully equipped airport that meets international standards. This will further boost tourism and the economy in our country, ultimately improving the well-being of our population”, Kobakhidze said.

He also thanked Levan Davitashvili, the First Vice Prime Minister and the Economy Minister, as well as professionals involved in the implementation of the project.