Direct flights between Albania and New York may soon become a reality as major upgrades are underway at Tirana International Airport. Construction has started on extending the airport’s runway from its original 2750 meters to 3200 meters, meeting the international standard for intercontinental flights. The project is expected to be completed within a year.

This marks the first phase in a larger process aimed at connecting Tirana and New York directly. In addition to the runway extension, two other crucial steps are required: certifying the runway for long-haul flights and ensuring compliance with U.S. Homeland Security standards for safety and security. Two major airlines are already in discussions to operate these direct flights, catering to the 150,000 to 160,000 passengers who currently travel between Tirana and New York annually via European transit hubs.

Historically, the airport has accommodated high-profile landings, including Air Force One carrying President George W. Bush and President Emmanuel Macron’s aircraft, through special landing operations. However, the extended runway will enable routine landings for intercontinental flights, paving the way for a new era of convenience and connectivity between Albania and the United States.