Lachin: Lachin Airport has been granted international status, APA reports. Prime Minister Ali Asadov has signed an Order in this regard. Lachin International Airport is a significant infrastructure project currently under development in Azerbaijan’s Lachin District. Situated near the village of Gorchu, approximately 30 km from Lachin city, 60 km from Kalbajar, and 70 km from Shusha, the airport is poised to enhance regional connectivity and economic growth.

According to Azeri-Press News Agency, the airport, at an elevation of 1,700-1,800 meters above sea level, will be the highest airport in Azerbaijan and among the highest in the post-Soviet region. It will feature a 3,000-meter-long and 60-meter-wide runway, capable of accommodating various aircraft types, including large cargo planes. The terminal building is designed to handle up to 200 passengers per hour, with a total area of 5,000 square meters, and will be equipped with modern air traffic control systems to meet international aviation standards.

The foundation stone for Lachin International Airport was laid in August 2021 by President Ilham Aliyev. Significant earthworks have been undertaken, including 19.2 million cubic meters of excavation and 1.2 million cubic meters of embankment work. The airport is expected to be operational by the end of 2025.

As the third international airport being constructed in Azerbaijan’s liberated territories-following Fuzuli and Zangilan airports-Lachin International Airport is part of a broader initiative to revitalize the region post-2020 Nagorno-Karabakh conflict. The airport is anticipated to boost tourism, facilitate cargo transport, and stimulate socio-economic development in the East Zangezur economic region.