The Albanian Prime Minister, Edi Rama, has announced that Albania will set up its own national carrier, with technical assistance from Turkish Airlines (TK, Istanbul Airport).
Speaking at a press conference, Rama said that the current service in Albania in regard to quality and ticket cost left "much to be desired". The Prime Minister did not want to commit to a deadline, but hoped that flights under the new national carrier will start within a year. He anticipates releasing a project plan in 90 days.
Turkish Airlines Chairman İlker Aycı said that they are currently working on the project's feasibility.
"We will do our best, with all the accumulated experience we have as a company, to share it with our Albanian friends and brothers. We are proceeding with great speed to take all the necessary steps for the realization of this project as soon as possible," Ayci said.
When questioned about improving access for low-cost carriers in Albania, Rama said that he was aware that the current concession with Tirana Rinas Airport was unfavourable in terms of cost, but hoped that the construction of two new airports – one at Vlore, which will be built in conjunction with Turkish partners, and one at Saranda – that the situation would improve.
Albania currently has only one operational scheduled carrier, Albawings (2B, Tirana), which offers services from Tirana to destinations in Italy.
