Beyond geographic location, robust infrastructure, efficient customs clearance, and a dense flight network collectively define an airport's competitiveness as an air cargo hub. This article examines Tirana International Airport (TIA) in Albania, analyzing its position as the country's primary aviation gateway while providing a comprehensive guide for freight forwarders, logistics firms, and industry professionals.
I. Tirana International Airport (TIA) Overview
Officially named "Mother Teresa" International Airport, TIA serves as Albania's most critical aviation facility with the IATA code TIA and ICAO code LATI . Located near the capital city Tirana, this customs-designated airport functions as both Albania's main international air hub and its city code identifier.
1.1 Key Information
- Airport Name: Tirana International Airport
- City: Tirana
- Country: Albania (AL)
- Time Zone: UTC+02:00
- Continent: Europe
1.2 Banking Hours and Customs
Airport banking services remain unavailable on weekends. Customs clearance details typically require registered user access, indicating specialized regulatory procedures that necessitate professional handling.
II. TIA's Flight Network
TIA maintains extensive European connections through these direct routes (partial listing):
- Milan-Malpensa (MXP)
- Paris-Orly (ORY)
- Vienna (VIE)
- Munich (MUC)
- Frankfurt (FRA)
- London-Gatwick (LGW)
- Amsterdam (AMS)
- Athens (ATH)
- Istanbul (SAW/IST)
This network links Albania with major European economic centers, facilitating international trade. As Albania's economy grows, TIA's route expansion is anticipated.
III. Air Cargo Operations Guide
Key considerations for air freight professionals:
- Customs Preparation: Engage local customs brokers early due to specialized clearance requirements
- Flight Verification: Confirm schedules before shipment to prevent delays
- Documentation: Ensure complete air waybills, commercial invoices, and packing lists
- Packaging: Select appropriate materials for cargo protection
- Insurance: Consider comprehensive coverage for transit risks
IV. Three-Letter Code Reference Systems
Global logistics platforms provide essential code databases containing:
- 40,000+ airport/city references
- IATA-standard updates
- Facility specifications
- Cargo handling requirements
4.1 Search Functions
- Airport/city code lookup
- Multilingual fuzzy search
- Customs airport identification
4.2 Search Techniques
Users can employ phonetic abbreviations (e.g., "BYNSALS" for Buenos Aires) or modified initials ("LSJFF" for Los Angeles).
V. Additional Logistics Tools
Complementary resources include:
- 200+ airline cargo tracking
- Global carrier directories
- Maritime shipping trackers
- 20,000+ port databases
VI. Future Outlook
TIA's strategic importance continues growing alongside Albania's economic development. Infrastructure enhancements and network expansions will solidify its regional hub status, presenting new opportunities for logistics operators navigating Southeastern European markets.