Expansion of Chișinău Airport terminal becomes a strategic priority amid rising passenger numbers
The expansion of the terminal at "Eugen Doga" International Airport in Chisinau remains a strategic priority for the airport's administration. Currently, the technical documentation for this project is being finalized. The modernization and expansion of the terminal will provide improved conditions for passengers. Notably, in 2025, the airport witnessed a growth rate that was more than ten times higher than the European average, and the number of travelers continues to rise steadily.
In 2025, Chisinau Airport recorded a significant 46% increase in passenger traffic, making it the top performer among medium-sized airports in Europe. The expansion of the flight network from Chisinau has resulted in a wider variety of travel options, attracting more passengers. Improved direct destinations, increased flight frequencies, and competitive prices indicate a natural recovery in traffic, according to airport spokesperson Natalia Cojocaru.
"This figure shows, first and foremost, that the 'Eugen Doga' International Airport in Chisinau has become one of the most dynamic airports in Europe in its category. This impressive growth reflects several cumulative factors, such as attracting new airlines, expanding the network of routes and destinations, and increasing flight frequencies, which provide passengers with more options. The development of the low-cost travel segment and a growing demand for regional and European mobility have also contributed to this trend. As a result, our citizens are traveling more frequently and over longer distances," said Natalia Cojocaru during the "Zi de Zi" show on Radio Moldova.
The terminal expansion project remains a strategic priority for Chisinau Airport. "Currently, the design organization is making adjustments to our technical documentation. Once the final design is submitted, we will initiate the tender process. After selecting the winning company, actual construction work will commence according to a well-established timeline. Our goal is to expand the terminal to accommodate current and future passenger flows, with a strong emphasis on comfort, safety, and operational efficiency."
According to Cojocaru, attracting airlines is about more than just opening new routes; it connects the Republic of Moldova with opportunities, investments, and facilitates closer connections with loved ones abroad.
"Each decision to launch a new route is preceded by detailed analyses of travel demand, economic potential, and long-term sustainability. Airlines tend to choose airports with real and growing demand, stability, economic prospects, safe infrastructure, and partners open to collaboration. Consequently, the diaspora's mobility generates a stable flow of travel, aided by our geographical location, which offers quick access to major European capitals, as well as active dialogues with air operators," Cojocaru added in an interview with journalist Svetlana Bogatu.
When asked whether ticket prices might change with the inauguration of new routes, Cojocaru responded, "The airport does not set ticket prices; these are exclusively determined by the airlines based on factors such as demand, seasonality, occupancy rates, and the individual commercial strategies of each operator. However, experience shows us that more routes and increased competition can lead to more advantageous options for passengers."
Germany and Italy are currently the leading countries in terms of the total number of flights operated from Chisinau Airport. The largest increases in traffic were recorded in 2025 for destinations such as Barcelona, Berlin, Paris, Verona, and Lisbon. During the summer season, Antalya stands out as a top desired destination, with 10 to 12 flights per day.
According to international reports, Chisinau "Eugen Doga" International Airport is a leader in Europe in terms of passenger growth in the medium-airport category. This indicates that it may not be the largest airport in Europe, but it has experienced the fastest percentage growth in its segment, according to experts.
By the end of last year, the "Eugen Doga" International Airport in Chisinau had served 6 million passengers. Economic expert Stanislav Ghilețchi attributed this growth to an influx of passengers from Ukraine, particularly given the operational challenges airports in that region faced.
"It is clear that the rise in passengers from Ukraine, where the airports are either closed or not operational, has significantly contributed to the increase in passenger numbers in the Republic of Moldova. Moldovans account for approximately 50% of the airport’s users, with Ukrainians making up the second-largest group. The additional million passengers have led to greater diversification of routes, both in terms of frequency and destinations. This increased competition has also led to lower prices, enabling more Moldovans to travel," Ghilețchi explained.
