Kutaisi International Airport

David the Builder Kutaisi International Airport is not merely an air gateway to the ancient region of Imereti, but a true symbol of modern Georgia. Opened after a massive reconstruction in 2012, it quickly transformed into the country's main hub for low-cost airlines, connecting Georgia with dozens of cities across Europe and Asia. Its futuristic building, designed by a renowned Dutch architectural firm, has become a recognizable landmark and creates a pleasant first impression for arriving travellers. The airport bears the name of the great Georgian King David IV the Builder (Aghmashenebeli), symbolizing the connection between the country's rich history and its dynamic future.

A key feature of Kutaisi Airport is its status as the largest low-cost hub in the region. It is from here that the majority of budget flights to Europe operate, making it the starting point for many independent travellers. The airport is distinguished by its compactness and thoughtful organisation: all procedures are completed quickly, and navigation is intuitive. Large panoramic windows in the waiting halls offer picturesque views of the surrounding landscapes.

Another important advantage is its strategic location and climatic conditions. The airport is often used as an alternate aerodrome for flights heading to Tbilisi or Batumi, as the weather here allows for aircraft landings almost around the clock without delays. Thanks to active development, the construction of a new runway, and infrastructure modernisation, the airport is constantly expanding its flight geography and improving passenger service quality.

Below is the essential contact information for Kutaisi International Airport (KUT), which will help you plan your trip and resolve any potential queries.

• Official Website: kutaisi.aero
• Inquiry Service Phone: +995 431 23 70 00 / +995 322 310 265
• Address: David the Builder Kutaisi International Airport, located 14 km west of the city centre, Georgia.
• Email: info.kutaisi@gulfmg.com
• Social Media: Current information and news can be found on the official page on Facebook.
• Lost & Found Information: For questions regarding lost items and luggage, please contact: +995 577 33 55 01.
• Passenger Support Contacts: For consultations and assistance, it is recommended to use the airport inquiry service numbers.

David the Builder Kutaisi International Airport (KUT) is located 23 kilometres west of the centre of Kutaisi. You can get from here to the city, or conversely from the city to the airport, via several convenient methods. The journey typically takes 30 to 40 minutes, though time may vary depending on the chosen transport and traffic conditions.

Public Transport is the most economical method. Comfortable shuttles run from the airport to the city centre and other popular destinations (such as Tbilisi or Batumi). Companies like Georgian Bus and Omnibus often coordinate their schedules with flight arrivals and departures, especially for low-cost carriers. Stops are easily found right at the terminal exit, making this an ideal option for budget and solo travellers.

Taxi or Transfer is the choice for those who value comfort and are travelling with family or a large amount of luggage. In Georgia, taxi-hailing apps (such as Bolt) are widely used, offering clear and fixed rates. Although the ride will cost more than the bus, you receive fast and convenient "door-to-door" service. You can also book a private transfer in advance so that a driver meets you with a name sign in the arrivals hall.

Car Rental provides complete freedom of movement and is an excellent solution for tourists planning to explore not only Kutaisi but also the picturesque surroundings of the Imereti region and other parts of the country. Counters for international and local rental companies are located directly within the airport building. For those arriving at the airport in their own vehicle, convenient parking is available with options for both short-term and long-term stays.

When planning your route, we advise checking bus schedules online in advance, and if choosing a taxi, using mobile apps to get the best price. If your main destination is the Black Sea coast resorts, consider Batumi Airport as an alternative, which is located significantly closer to the cities of Adjara.

Kutaisi International Airport (KUT) is a modern and compact aviation hub with a simple and clear structure for passengers. Despite significant recent expansion, the airport consists of one passenger terminal that handles all flights. This organisation makes it extremely convenient for navigation, eliminating the need to transfer between different buildings.

The terminal layout is logical and well thought out. Departure and arrival zones are clearly separated by levels:

• Arrivals Zone is located on the ground floor. After disembarking, passengers enter the passport control hall, followed by the baggage claim and customs inspection area. The general arrivals hall houses car rental counters, currency exchange points, and mobile operator offices.
• Departures Zone is located on the first floor. You can reach it via elevator or escalator. Here you will find check-in counters and baggage drop-off. Immediately behind them are security screening and passport control points, leading to the "airside" zone with boarding gates, Duty-Free shops, and several cafes.

Completing pre-flight formalities at Kutaisi Airport usually does not take much time. However, since the airport is a hub for low-cost carriers, queues can form before popular flights. It is recommended to arrive at the airport at least 2.5 hours before departure. This time is usually sufficient to calmly complete check-in, drop off luggage, and pass through security.

To navigate the terminal, simply follow the numerous signs in Georgian and English. Thanks to its compact size and the fact that all services are in one building, orienting yourself here is very easy. Even if you are visiting the airport for the first time, you will effortlessly find all necessary zones — from check-in counters to your boarding gate.

The history of Kutaisi International Airport, also known as David the Builder Airport, began long before its modern transformation. Originally, the Kopitnari military airfield was located on this site, built after the Second World War. During the Soviet years, it was used for domestic flights connecting Kutaisi with other cities in Georgia and the USSR republics, as well as for military aviation needs.

After the collapse of the Soviet Union, the airfield fell into disrepair and ceased operations for a long time. The turning point in its history was 2011, when the Georgian government decided on a complete reconstruction to create a modern international airport on its base. Virtually built from scratch, it was grandly opened on September 27, 2012. This project became a crucial step for the development of tourism and economic activity in the Imereti region and the entire western part of the country.

From the very beginning, Kutaisi Airport was conceived as the country's first hub for budget airlines. The first and key partner was the Hungarian airline Wizz Air, which launched flights to several European destinations. This decision ensured explosive growth in passenger traffic and made the airport one of the fastest-growing in the Caucasus. Following Wizz Air, other low-cost carriers arrived, further strengthening its position.

An interesting fact: the design of the new terminal was developed by the famous Dutch architectural bureau UNStudio. Its futuristic and bright appearance, with a characteristic red "umbrella-like" structure, became the airport's calling card. Due to constantly growing popularity, large-scale modernisation and terminal expansion were carried out in subsequent years, significantly increasing its capacity and improving passenger comfort levels.

Today, David the Builder Kutaisi International Airport is not just an important transport hub but also a symbol of successful transformation. Its history is a vivid example of how an abandoned Soviet airfield can turn into a modern air gateway, opening the beauties of Georgia to the whole world.

Kutaisi International Airport (KUT) is a modern and compact aviation hub offering passengers all necessary services for a comfortable wait before their flight. Despite its relatively small size, the airport is designed with travellers' needs in mind and ensures a high level of service.

For those wishing to have a meal or do some shopping, the terminal features several cafes and restaurants where you can try both Georgian dishes and familiar European snacks. The departure zone houses a Duty-Free shop offering a standard range of goods: perfumes, cosmetics, tobacco products, and sweets. Here you can also purchase famous Georgian wines and other souvenirs from Georgia.

Free Wi-Fi is available throughout the airport, allowing you to stay connected, and for passenger convenience, charging stations for mobile devices are equipped in the waiting halls. Business class passengers or travellers desiring enhanced comfort can utilise the VIP lounge services for an additional fee, where beverages and snacks are offered in a quiet atmosphere. It is worth noting that there are no specialised conference halls or business centres for holding meetings at the airport, however, the VIP lounge provides a sufficiently private space for work.

The airport operates currency exchange points and ATMs where you can withdraw cash or exchange money. Information desks are always ready to assist passengers with any travel-related questions. In case of need, the terminal has a medical point for first aid.

For passengers with children, a mother and child room is provided. The airport is also fully equipped to serve travellers with reduced mobility: there are ramps, special restrooms, and an assistance service, which is recommended to be booked in advance through the airline. Although there are no hotels directly inside the airport building, several hotels are located in the immediate vicinity where one can comfortably stay while awaiting a flight.

Despite its compact size, Kutaisi International Airport (KUT) offers travellers several excellent options to have a snack or a full meal before departure. The main establishments are concentrated in the departure hall after passing security control (airside), but there are also places to grab a coffee in the public zone.

In the "clean" departure zone, you will have a choice of several establishments. To enjoy the tastes of Georgia one last time, visit the Mimino cafe. Here you can order freshly baked Imeretian Khachapuri (cheese bread), filling Lobiani (bean pie), or drink famous Georgian lemonade. For those who prefer something more familiar, the international chain Dunkin' operates here, offering coffee, donuts, and sandwiches. And at the Beer Port bar, you can have a local beverage while bidding farewell to your holiday.

In the public access zone (landside), before passing control, there is also a cafe where you can have a snack and a hot drink while saying goodbye to those seeing you off. Typically, this is another Dunkin' outlet or a similar establishment with drinks and light snacks.

For vegetarians, the choice is quite simple — cheese Khachapuri and Lobiani are excellent options. However, vegan and gluten-free options are more limited, so it is better to check the ingredients with staff or bring suitable snacks with you. Please note that prices at the airport are traditionally higher than in the city.

Most establishments in the departure zone operate around the clock or adjust their schedule to flight times, which is especially convenient given the large number of night and early morning departures from Kutaisi. You can be assured that you won't go hungry at any time of day.

To ensure your journey through Kutaisi International Airport goes as smoothly as possible, make use of these tips. David the Builder Airport, though modern and compact, handles many low-cost flights, so it can get crowded during peak hours. It is recommended to arrive 2.5-3 hours before international flights to complete all formalities without rushing.

The most convenient way to save time is to complete online check-in for your flight and save the boarding pass on your phone. If you are travelling only with hand luggage, this allows you to head straight to security control. Check-in counters, especially for budget airlines, can accumulate queues. The screening procedure is standard, but be prepared that space in the departure hall is somewhat limited.

When choosing a seat on the plane departing from Kutaisi, consider that one side of the aircraft may offer scenic views of the Caucasus Mountains (weather and route permitting). Aisle seats are convenient for those planning to get up during the flight, while emergency exit seats, though paid, offer more legroom.

Pay special attention to your airline's hand luggage rules, as low-cost carriers strictly monitor bag size and weight. Standard restrictions for liquids are containers no larger than 100 ml, packed in a transparent bag. This does not apply to goods purchased in Duty-Free. You can safely purchase famous Georgian wine or other items after passing security control and take them on board.

Kutaisi Airport is rarely used for transit flights with a single ticket. If you have a self-transfer, allow plenty of time: you will likely have to pass border control, collect luggage, and check in again for the next flight. Ensure you check visa requirements for entering Georgia.

Customs control upon arrival usually proceeds quickly. If you have nothing to declare, feel free to use the "Green Channel". Upon departure, be prepared that you might be asked about the quantity of alcohol or souvenirs being exported, but this is a standard procedure. Don't forget to process Tax Free if you made major purchases in partner stores.

To save money, book a transfer from the airport to the city or other regions (such as Tbilisi or Batumi) online in advance — this is often cheaper than taking a taxi on the spot. Also, there are exchange bureaus at the airport, but rates may be less favourable than in the city. Bring an empty water bottle to fill after security screening, and a light snack, as the choice of cafes in the airport is limited.

In case of a flight delay, first contact your airline representative for information. If you are flying with a European carrier (Wizz Air, Ryanair), remember your rights to compensation, meals, and hotel accommodation during lengthy delays. While waiting for your flight, you can use the free Wi-Fi, have a coffee in one of the cafes, or visit the Duty-Free shops.