Alexander Kartveli Batumi International Airport

Overview

Alexander Kartveli Batumi International Airport (IATA: BUS) is Georgia's second-busiest international airport, serving the vibrant coastal city of Batumi and the broader Adjara region. Named after the renowned Georgian-born aircraft designer Alexander Kartveli (who later worked for Republic Aviation in the United States), the airport functions as a vital hub for tourism, connecting the Black Sea coast with cities across Europe, the Middle East, and the CIS. During the summer months, traffic surges as charter and low‑cost carriers bring beach‑goers and holiday‑makers, while year‑round flights support business travel and regional connectivity. The terminal is compact but efficient, designed to handle the seasonal influx without overwhelming passengers.

Location & Access

Batumi Airport is situated approximately 7 kilometres south of Batumi’s city centre, just off the main coastal highway. The location is convenient for reaching both the city and the nearby resort areas of Kobuleti, Kvariati, and Sarpi. Taxis are readily available outside the arrivals hall; the journey to the city centre takes about 15 minutes depending on traffic. Fixed‑route minibuses (marshrutkas) also run along the coast, with a stop near the terminal. For those driving, the airport is well‑signposted from the E70 highway, which runs along the coast from Turkey to the Georgian capital, Tbilisi. Parking is available on site, including dedicated spaces for wheelchair users. Rideshare apps such as Bolt and Yandex operate in Batumi, offering an alternative to street taxis.

The airport’s proximity to the Turkish border (about 20 kilometres to the south) makes it a convenient entry point for travellers crossing overland from Trabzon or other Black Sea destinations. Several hotels in Batumi offer airport shuttle services, which can be arranged in advance.

Facilities

The terminal provides essential services tailored to passenger comfort and accessibility. The following amenities are confirmed:

• Wheelchair‑accessible car park – dedicated spaces close to the terminal entrance are available.
• Wheelchair‑accessible entrance – all main entry points are step‑free and wide enough for mobility aids.
• Wheelchair‑accessible toilet – accessible lavatories are clearly signposted within the terminal.
• Baggage storage – a left‑luggage service is available for passengers who wish to explore Batumi without their bags. Rates are based on size and duration.
• Toilet – standard washrooms are located throughout the departure and arrival areas.
• Has changing table(s) – family‑friendly facilities include baby changing tables in both men’s and women’s restrooms.

While the airport is not large, it offers a clean and functional environment. The departure lounge includes a few seating areas, a small café, and a duty‑free shop. Free Wi‑Fi is available throughout the terminal. Currency exchange and ATMs are present before security; larger denomination cards may be needed at the exchange counter. Travellers should note that retail and dining options are limited, so it is advisable to bring snacks or refreshments if you have a long wait, though the café serves hot and cold drinks, pastries, and light meals.

About the Region

Batumi is the capital of the Adjara Autonomous Republic, a region famed for its subtropical climate, palm‑lined boulevards, and a unique blend of European and Asian influences. The city is a major tourist destination, attracting visitors for its beaches, casinos, and vibrant nightlife. The Batumi Botanical Garden, located just north of the city along the coast, is a sprawling collection of flora from around the world, set on a hillside with stunning views of the Black Sea. The historic old town features 19th‑century architecture, including the restored Alfons and Europe squares, and the iconic Batumi Tower with its revolving restaurant.

Beyond Batumi, Adjara offers mountainous landscapes, with hiking trails in the Lesser Caucasus and the picturesque village of Makhuntseti, known for its waterfall and ancient stone bridge. The region’s cuisine is distinctively Georgian, with an emphasis on fresh seafood, spicy adjika, and khachapuri (cheese‑filled bread) baked in a traditional tone oven. Wine culture is also strong, with local varieties like Tsolikauri and Chkhaveri available in many restaurants.

Batumi International Airport serves as the primary gateway for exploring this corner of Georgia, with onward connections to Tbilisi (by road or domestic flight), the mountain resorts of Bakuriani and Gudauri, and the cave monastery at Vardzia. For many travellers, the airport is the first and last stop on a journey that combines beach relaxation with cultural discovery.

Practical Information

• Address: Tbilisi Highway, Batumi, Georgia
• Phone: +995 422 23 51 00
• Website: https://batumiairport.com/
• Hours: The airport operates according to flight schedules. While the terminal building is not open 24/7, it opens several hours before the first departure and closes after the last arrival. Peak passenger traffic occurs around 11 am and 12 pm (noon), when multiple flights are scheduled; travellers should expect longer queues at check‑in and security during these times.

Check the airport’s official website for real‑time flight information and any temporary changes to operating hours. For specific accessibility queries, contact the airport directly via the phone number above.