Yerevan’s Zvartnots International Airport has confirmed a $500 million expansion plan that will substantially increase its capacity over the next seven years. The Master Plan, submitted in January 2026, mandates a minimum $425 million investment by 2033 and envisions growing the terminal from its current configuration to one capable of handling significantly more passengers than the 5.5 million it processed in 2025.
The key structural changes outlined in the plan include increasing boarding gates from the current 6 to 16, roughly doubling the terminal’s physical footprint, and upgrading airside infrastructure to accommodate the widebody aircraft - including the Airbus A330 and A350 family - that longer-range airlines require for routes from Europe, the Gulf and Asia.
Why This Matters for Travellers
Armenia has seen remarkable growth in inbound tourism since 2022, with visitor numbers crossing the one-million mark for the first time in recorded history during 2025. That trajectory has exposed the real constraint: Zvartnots was designed for a smaller traffic base and is operating at close to capacity during peak seasons.
The expansion addresses two problems simultaneously. First, it creates physical space for more airlines and routes - the gate shortage has been a limiting factor on airline growth, as carriers cannot always secure reliable slots. Second, it enables the airport to serve larger aircraft, which would allow airlines to offer more capacity without adding more frequencies.
New airline interest. China Southern Airlines recently opened a Yerevan office and doubled flight frequency. Air Arabia, flydubai and a growing roster of Gulf carriers have added Armenia to their networks in the past two years. The airport’s expanded infrastructure would support this growth rather than cap it.
Improved passenger experience. Current peak-hour congestion at Zvartnots - particularly at immigration and security - is a known issue for travellers. The terminal expansion is expected to ease these bottlenecks materially.
Timeline. Construction is expected to begin in 2027 with phased openings through to 2033. Travellers arriving before 2027 should expect the existing terminal facilities; no disruption to current operations is anticipated during the planning and pre-construction phases.
For current arrival and transport information from Zvartnots to central Yerevan, see our travel information guides. For things to do once you arrive, our Yerevan and Armenia destinations section covers the full scope of what the country has on offer. In the meantime, compare fares to Yerevan to plan your trip.