Kukes Zayed

Airport Features and Advantages

Strategic Location. Kukes Zayed Airport is ideally situated for tourists planning to explore the northern part of Albania, including the famous Prokletije mountains, or those heading to Kosovo, the border of which is just a few dozen kilometres away.

Modern Infrastructure. Being one of the newest airports in the Balkans, the terminal is designed to meet all modern requirements for comfort and safety. The building's compact size allows passengers to complete all formalities — from check-in to boarding — in a matter of minutes, avoiding the queues typical of large hubs.

Low-Cost Concept. The airport was originally created as a budget-friendly alternative to the main airport in Tirana. It focuses on attracting low-cost carriers, giving travellers hope for more affordable flight prices to this amazing region.

Scenic Approach. Flying into Kukes is an adventure in itself. The descent takes place against a backdrop of dramatic mountain landscapes and Lake Fierza, making the arrival here an unforgettable experience for those who appreciate beautiful views from the window.

Below is the contact information for Kukes Zayed International Airport (KFZ), which will help you plan your trip and promptly resolve any issues.

• Official Website: You can find all current information about flights, services, and regulations on the official website kukesairport.al.
• Inquiry Service Phone: For immediate information, you can call: +355 69 707 0013.
• Airport Address: Rruga Shtetërore SH3, Kukes, Albania.
• Email: For written inquiries, please use the address: info@kukesairport.al.
• Social Media: Follow airport news and updates on its official pages on Facebook, Instagram, and LinkedIn.
• Lost & Found Information: If you encounter an issue with lost or damaged luggage, please contact the dedicated service via email: lost&found@kukesairport.al.
• Passenger Support Contacts: For general passenger support, it is recommended to use the main inquiry phone number or the airport's email address.

Getting to Kukes Zayed International Airport (KFZ) from the city centre of Kukes is quite simple, as the airport is located just a few kilometres away. Depending on your budget and preferences, you can choose from several convenient methods.

Taxi or Private Transfer — this is the fastest and most comfortable option. The journey from the city centre to the terminal will take approximately 15-20 minutes. This is the ideal choice for travellers with bulky luggage or those who value their time. The cost will be higher than public transport but quite reasonable due to the short distance. We advise agreeing on the price with the driver in advance or booking a car through a verified service.

Public Transport options may be limited. Special buses to the airport, if they are running, usually have schedules tied to flight departure and arrival times. This is the most budget-friendly method, but it requires advance planning. We recommend checking current information on routes and schedules at the local bus station or your hotel.

If you are travelling by rental car around Albania, driving to the airport will be effortless. The road from the city is simple and straightforward. Most rental companies offer the option to return the car directly at the airport, which is very convenient for concluding your journey.

Parking for personal vehicles is available on the territory of Kukes Zayed Airport. You can leave your car here for a few hours or for a longer period if you plan to return to Kukes. This is a safe and convenient option for those arriving in their own vehicle.

Kukes Zayed Airport (KFZ) is a modern and compact aviation hub distinguished by a structure that is simple and clear for passengers. The airport operates one passenger terminal, serving all flights, both departures and arrivals. Thanks to this, you won't have to worry about complex transfers or long searches for the right boarding gate — everything is located in one building.

The terminal layout is intuitively understandable. The space is logically divided into an arrival zone and a departure zone. The ground floor houses check-in counters, the main waiting hall, and security checkpoints. Due to the airport's small size, all key points — from the entrance to the gate — are within walking distance of each other, making navigation extremely simple.

One of the main advantages of the airport in Kukes is the rapid completion of all pre-flight procedures. Flight check-in and security screening usually take significantly less time than in large international hubs. Nevertheless, it is recommended to arrive at the airport in advance, typically 2 hours before departure, to check in luggage and pass through controls without rushing.

To navigate the terminal, simply follow the clear signs that will help you orient yourself. There are no transitions between zones, as all services are located in a single space. This small airport in Albania is perfect for travellers who value comfort and simplicity and do not wish to spend time moving through huge complexes.

The history of Kukes Zayed International Airport (KFZ) is a shining example of transformation and international cooperation. Initially, a small airfield existed on this site, which was not used for commercial flights. The turning point in its destiny was 1999, when, during the humanitarian crisis in Kosovo, the United Arab Emirates set up a refugee camp here and used the airfield to deliver aid.

It was then, on the initiative of His Highness Sheikh Zayed bin Sultan Al Nahyan, that the decision was made to finance the construction of a modern airport at this location. This generous gesture was aimed at supporting and developing the northern region of Albania. Construction works turned the modest airfield into a full-fledged aviation hub capable of receiving international flights.

The airport was named in honour of its benefactor — Kukes Zayed International Airport. After the completion of large-scale reconstruction, which included the construction of a new terminal, runway, and all necessary infrastructure according to ICAO standards, the airport was ready for operation. The official opening for commercial passenger transport took place in April 2021.

Since then, KFZ has become the second operating international airport in the country, significantly increasing the tourism and economic appeal of Albania's northern regions. Its opening became an important milestone, simplifying access to natural gems such as the Albanian Alps and breathing new life into the economy of the city of Kukes and its surroundings.

Kukes Zayed Airport (KFZ) offers passengers all necessary services for a comfortable wait for their flight. Despite its compact size, the terminal is designed to ensure convenience both upon departure and arrival in Albania.

For those wishing to have a snack or do some shopping, the airport has cafés and small dining outlets where you can drink coffee and eat a sandwich. There is also a Duty Free shop offering a standard assortment of perfumes and souvenirs. Passengers can spend time comfortably in the general waiting lounges, and free Wi-Fi is available for all visitors. Mobile device charging stations are installed in the terminal.

The airport features currency exchange points and ATMs, which is particularly convenient for tourists arriving from abroad. In case of need, a medical point is located in the terminal building where first aid can be provided. A mother and child room is equipped for travellers with small children.

The airport is fully adapted to serve passengers with reduced mobility. Ramps, special restrooms, and an escort service from the check-in counter to boarding are provided. There are no specialised hotels on the airport territory; however, suitable accommodation options can be found in the nearby city of Kukes. Business services, such as conference rooms, are not provided at the airport.

Kukes Zayed Airport (KFZ) is a compact and modern regional airport, so the selection of dining establishments here is designed to meet the basic needs of passengers before departure. One should not expect a large food court with a multitude of restaurants; however, having a snack or drinking coffee before a flight is entirely possible.

The main dining area is located in the general hall of the terminal, accessible to all visitors (before passing security control). Usually, a small café or snack bar operates here. In this zone, you can order coffee, refreshing drinks, sandwiches, pastries, and light snacks. After passing security control (in the departure zone), the choice is generally more limited and may be reduced to vending machines with drinks and snacks, or a small kiosk.

If you wish to try something from the local cuisine of Albania, look out for traditional pastries, such as byrek with cheese or meat, if available in the café assortment. This is an excellent option for a quick and satisfying snack. For a more substantial lunch or dinner, it is recommended to eat at one of the restaurants in the city of Kukes before arriving at the airport, as establishments within KFZ specialise specifically in light snacks.

Passengers with specific dietary needs (vegans, people with gluten intolerance) should note that specialised dishes may be absent from the menu. The choice for vegetarians is usually limited to pastries with cheese or vegetable sandwiches. In this regard, if you have strict dietary restrictions, it is more reliable to bring food with you. Prices in the airport café are standard for such establishments, and operating hours are usually tied to the flight schedule, ensuring service for all departing passengers.

Planning a trip through Kukes Zayed Airport? To ensure your journey begins and ends smoothly, make use of our tips. This modern, yet relatively small airport in the city of Kukes serves mainly international flights, and knowing a few nuances will make your stay here as comfortable as possible.

Arrival Time and Check-in. For international flights, the standard recommendation is to arrive at the airport 2-3 hours before departure. This time is sufficient to complete all formalities without rushing. To save time, use online check-in if your airline provides such an option. At check-in counters and during security screening, be ready to present your passport and boarding pass.

Passing Security Control. The rules here are standard. Liquids in hand luggage must be in containers up to 100 ml and packed in a single transparent bag. Laptops, tablets, and other large electronics must be removed from your bag for separate scanning. Preparing these items in advance will significantly speed up the screening process.

Seat Selection on the Plane. If you have the opportunity to choose a seat during check-in, consider your preferences. Window seats will offer you stunning views of the mountain landscapes of northern Albania during takeoff and landing. Aisle seats are convenient if you plan to get up during the flight without disturbing your neighbours.

Hand Luggage and Customs. It is prohibited to take sharp objects, weapons, or flammable substances in hand luggage. Power banks can only be carried in hand luggage. When passing customs control, be prepared to declare large sums of cash or expensive goods if required by law. We recommend checking the current customs regulations of your destination country in advance.

Passengers with Connections. Kukes Airport is not a major transit hub, so most passengers begin or end their journey here. If your itinerary includes a transfer at another airport, clarify at check-in whether you will need to collect and re-check your luggage at the transit point.

Savings and Unforeseen Situations. To save money, pack your luggage compactly to avoid paying for excess weight, and bring an empty water bottle that can be filled after passing security. In case of a flight delay or cancellation, first contact your airline representative. They should provide information on the flight status and, depending on the length of the delay, offer drinks, meals, or hotel accommodation.