Ryanair Expands in Albania with New Tirana Base

The Albanian Riviera in southern Albania boasts some of the most beautiful beaches, writes Kara Godfrey in an article published in the British daily The Sun, CE Report quotes ATA.

Ksamil remains one of Albania’s top-rated attractions — often called the "Maldives of Europe" thanks to its crystal-clear waters and overwater beach huts.

Located about four hours from Tirana, the easiest way to get there is by car. The Ksamil beach is a small peninsula with white sand and bright blue waters, surrounded by tiny islands that can be reached by canoe or small boat.

“It’s like a tropical beach — but in Europe!”

Meanwhile, Tirana, Albania’s capital, is gaining popularity as a city-break destination.

In 2023, over 8.3 million tourists visited Albania — an increase of 4 million compared to 2022, according to the Albanian Tourism Board.

Michael O’Leary, CEO of Ryanair, said it’s the only true low-cost airline offering flights to and from Albania.

Since Ryanair’s launch in Albania in November 2023, it has worked with Tirana Airport to meet its targets, aiming to carry over 4 million passengers annually by 2026, he added.

Tirana Airport’s Director of Operations, Piervittorio Farabbi, said Ryanair introduced its "Low-Fare Revolution" to Albania and that by next summer, there will be more opportunities to travel abroad from Tirana and to increase Albania’s global tourist exposure.

Ryanair will open a new base with 3 aircraft in Tirana, starting April 2026, launching 10 new routes, including flights from Birmingham.

Other routes include Dublin, Verona, Malta, and Milan, while London flights will be increased.

The new additions will total 450 weekly flights across 33 routes.

Further plans include adding 3 more aircraft, bringing the total to 6 planes, and handling over 5 million passengers annually.

Meanwhile, Wizz Air will also launch direct flights from London Gatwick to Tirana starting October, with fares as low as £19.99.