Azerbaijan Completed its Trio of International Hubs

Azerbaijan has completed construction of the necessary airports to support the region’s socio-economic development. President Ilham Aliyev previously visited the construction site of Lachin International Airport, which marked the 3rd airport built in the liberated territories. It was opened in May 2025.

These airports have helped more tourists visit and allowed the local economy to grow. The airport in Fuzuli has been open since 2021, and the one in Zangilan began operations in late 2022. These projects were part of the state program following the 2020 war.

Background of Azerbaijan's Civil Aviation Infrastructure Development

In the early 1990s, Armenia took control of the Karabakh region of Azerbaijan. This lasted for many years. During this time, many people lost their homes.

In 2020, things changed drastically. Azerbaijan regained control over large parts of the region, leading to the liberation of over 300 settlements, including the cities of Jabrayil, Fuzuli, Gubadli, Zangilan, and Shusha, from illegal Armenian occupation.

This allowed the country to complete construction and major infrastructure projects in cities such as Fuzuli, Zangilan, and Lachin.

Benefits of Having International Airports in the Karabakh Region

Building these airports has proven perfect for the area. Here is how they have helped:

• Strengthened Economy: The airports have helped businesses grow.
• Tourism: It has become much easier for international travellers to visit and see the historic sites.
• Jobs: Building and running these airports created new job opportunities for local people.

Zangilan International Airport: A Promising Infrastructure Project

The Zangilan International Airport was inaugurated on October 20, 2022, by President Ilham Aliyev and President Recep Tayyip Erdoğan, featuring a 3,000-meter runway capable of supporting 400-ton cargo planes.

Details of the Zangilan International Airport Project

The Zangilan International Airport is the second airport to be built in the liberated lands of Azerbaijan. This airport has a very long and wide runway. It is 3 kilometres long and 60 meters wide. The construction began in May 2021 and was completed by the AzVirt company.

Fuzuli International Airport: A Successful Inauguration Amidst the COVID-19 Pandemic

The Fuzuli International Airport, the first airport in the liberated lands, was inaugurated in October 2021. It was built in only 8 months and opened in October 2021. Even though the COVID-19 pandemic made work difficult at the time, Azerbaijani and Turkish companies finished it on schedule.

Fuzuli International Airport operates under assigned ICAO and IATA codes, confirming its integration into international civil aviation systems.

It has already served several domestic and international flights, including a flight from Istanbul, Turkey, carrying Azerbaijani citizens returning from abroad.

This airport has a long runway and plenty of space for planes to park. It also has a modern building for passengers and a tall tower to control the flights.

The Role of the International Air Transport Association and the International Civil Aviation Organisation in Airport Operations

The International Air Transport Association (IATA) and the International Civil Aviation Organisation (ICAO) play a crucial role in ensuring the safe and efficient operation of airports worldwide. These organisations set standards and guidelines for airport construction, maintenance, and operations, and provide training and support to airport staff.

The recognition of Fuzuli International Airport by IATA and ICAO demonstrates Azerbaijan's commitment to meeting international standards and regulations in aviation. This recognition also opens up opportunities for the airport to attract international airlines, increasing connectivity and economic growth in the region.

Lachin International Airport: A Major Boost to the Tourism Industry

The Lachin International Airport opened in May 2025 and was built with a 3,000-meter runway, completing Azerbaijan’s trio of international airports built in the liberated territories. President Ilham Aliyev had previously highlighted that the region’s natural beauty and the airport have strong potential to attract tourists by improving accessibility for travellers.

Construction Challenges and Opportunities for Future Infrastructure Projects

Building airports in these areas was not easy. The rugged terrain, limited infrastructure and the pandemic posed obstacles to the successful completion of these projects. However, the Azerbaijani government has shown its commitment to developing the region's aviation infrastructure, and the successful inauguration of the Fuzuli International Airport is a testament to its efforts

The construction of these airports not only promotes economic development but also provides employment opportunities for local communities. Moreover, it provides new opportunities for investment in the region's tourism, agriculture, and manufacturing sectors.

Conclusion

The completion of 3 new international airports marked a big step for Azerbaijan. They have helped the country stay connected to the world and have boosted the country’s economic growth and improved connectivity.