Georgia’s aviation industry soared to new heights in 2024, as fresh data from the National Statistics Office of Georgia (Geostat) revealed remarkable expansion across passenger travel, cargo transport, and airport operations. The numbers tell a story of a sector gaining momentum, with passenger volumes surging, flight frequencies increasing, and infrastructure keeping pace with demand.
Passenger Traffic and Flight Surge
Georgia’s airports were busier than ever in 2024. The sheer number of people choosing air travel spiked significantly, making it one of the fastest-growing sectors in the country’s transport industry.
- A total of 644,500 passengers were transported, marking a 1.8-fold increase from the previous year.
- Passenger turnover reached 1.77 billion passenger-kilometers, essentially doubling the 2023 figure.
- Georgian airports collectively handled 7.44 million passengers, reflecting a 23.9% increase year-over-year.
- Arrivals: 3.71 million passengers (+24.2%)
- Departures: 3.73 million passengers (+23.5%)
- The vast majority—94%—of passenger traffic came from regular, scheduled flights.
- The total number of commercial flights reached 30,300, a rise of 18.9% from the prior year.
For a relatively small country, these numbers highlight Georgia’s growing role as a regional aviation hub. More travelers are choosing Georgian airports for both domestic and international journeys, likely driven by an improving economic climate and increased airline offerings.
Cargo Transport on the Rise
The air freight industry in Georgia also experienced a significant uplift, meeting rising demands for goods movement in and out of the country.
- Georgia transported 269,600 tons of cargo in 2024, up 20.3% compared to 2023.
- Freight turnover hit 611.5 million ton-kilometers, growing by 43.6% year-over-year.
- Airports handled 26,200 tons of cargo and mail, with the bulk of shipments inbound.
- 86.7% of cargo was inbound.
- 13.3% was outbound.
- A total of 2,200 cargo flights were recorded, representing a 2.1-fold increase compared to the previous year.
The sharp rise in air cargo suggests a strengthening economy, with Georgia emerging as a key logistics center in the region. More companies are choosing air transport for their supply chains, taking advantage of improved infrastructure and increased capacity.
Expanding Fleet and Infrastructure
With increased demand comes the need for better infrastructure, and Georgia has kept pace by expanding its aviation fleet and airport facilities.
- The Georgian Civil Aircraft Registry recorded 70 aircraft in 2024, an increase of 16.7% from the previous year.
- 78.6% of the fleet was dedicated to passenger transport, while 21.4% focused on cargo operations.
- Breakdown of passenger aircraft by seating capacity:
- 76.4% had fewer than 50 seats.
- 10.9% had between 51–150 seats.
- 12.7% had 151–250+ seats.
On the ground, airports have also expanded their capacities:
| Infrastructure | 2024 Capacity |
|---|---|
| Runways | 6 |
| Checkpoints | 58 |
| Passenger Gates | 25 |
| Parking Spaces | 1,900 |
With a larger fleet and expanded airport infrastructure, Georgia’s aviation sector is well-positioned for continued growth in 2025 and beyond.
What’s Driving the Growth?
Several factors contribute to Georgia’s aviation boom.
- Tourism Recovery – Georgia has been a rising destination in Eastern Europe, with more international visitors returning after pandemic-related slowdowns.
- Stronger Airline Partnerships – Major airlines have increased flights to and from Georgian airports, boosting connectivity.
- Economic Development – Business travel is on the rise, as the country strengthens trade ties with neighboring regions.
- Government Support – Policies aimed at modernizing infrastructure and expanding air transport capabilities have played a significant role.
What’s Next for Georgia’s Aviation Industry?
With the strong momentum from 2024, the outlook for 2025 appears promising. More airlines could establish routes, airports may undergo further expansions, and the air freight sector is expected to see continued growth. Georgia is not just keeping up—it’s taking off in a big way.
