Latest statistics released by Tirana International Airport (TIA), which serves the Albanian capital, reveal that in the first half of 2011 the number of passengers increased by an impressive 23%

According to TIA figures, the airport handled 793,984 passengers between January and June 2011 – a new record! Air traffic movements and cargo handling also increased, by 10.6% and 17.7% respectively compared to the same period last year.

Airport officials are confident that the high number of passengers is as a result of the visa liberalization process and with tourism figures up 8.5% year-on-year Albania is certainly enjoying a boost in popularity.

The airline carrying most passengers in and out of Albania is Italian owned Bellair with 46.2% of the traffic although this could be set to change with the news that British Airways is starting daily flights to Albania rather than their previous thrice weekly service.   

Ravin Maharajah, Partner of Lalzit Bay Resort & Spa, the 5* luxury residential development located on Albania’s Adriatic coastline just 45 minutes from Tirana, comments,

 

“The Lonely Planet Guide and the Financial Times did Albania a tremendous favour at the end of last year – both highlighting this little known Balkan country as a top tip for 2011. Lonely Planet placed Albania at the number one spot for places to visit in Europe and the FT said: “one of this year’s most intriguing prospects – partly for its quiet, affordable Mediterranean beaches, partly for its rugged landscape.

“We are so excited by the development of this country and feel very proud to be a part of its growth. Tourism is increasing steadily and in line with this the interest in Lalzit Bay Resort & Spa as we head ever closer to ground breaking on the site.”

The Prime Minister of Albania, Sali Berisha is behind much of this success, working hard with the Albanian nationals to ensure that their efforts are being put in the right direction and offering support where he can. 

He is committed to tourism, working with experts to create a dedicated database to streamline the industry and its operating processes. Lalzit Bay is an area which is going to be highly targeted by domestic and international tourists looking for second homes away from the city. 

 

Its warm sea waters, beautiful white sandy beaches and fabulous weather makes this area a very sensible choice for property investment. Lalzit Bay Resort & Spa is being marketed from as little as €29,000 for a studio apartment. The resort will provide holiday makers with outstanding on-site facilities including a beach club, tennis courts and a wide choice of delicious international cuisines available in the restaurants.