Azimuth Launches Moscow to Tbilisi Flights Following Georgian Permit
A Russian carrier has begun selling tickets for a Moscow to Tbilisi service on its official website after Georgian aviation authorities issued the necessary flight permits as of mid-May. The new route marks a notable expansion in scheduled air connectivity between Russia and Georgia, a move that could impact travelers from Canada and the United States who are exploring options in the Caucasus region. Ticket pricing is positioned between 17,148 rubles and 62,798 rubles for this itinerary, reflecting a range that could attract both budget-conscious travelers and those seeking more comfortable fare classes. The development arrives in a climate of evolving regulatory arrangements between the two countries and signals a broader reopening of regional air links that had been constrained in the past. Tbilisi’s status as a growing hub for tourism and business travel makes this route potentially significant for Western travelers seeking to access Georgia’s capital and its gateways to the country’s diverse landscapes.
Georgian aviation authorities confirmed that the operator is allowed to fly to Georgia from May 17, with the service slated to run up to seven flights per week in a round-trip pattern between Moscow and Tbilisi. This schedule provides a predictable cadence for travelers and travel planners who favor weekly options and frequent connections. The announcement underscores Georgia’s ongoing efforts to expand international air access and diversify the mix of carriers serving key international airports within the country, including the capital’s hub and neighboring cities. The development is being watched by regional industry stakeholders and by international travelers who track flight availability to Georgia’s tourism and economic centers. The route’s viability will likely hinge on ongoing regulatory alignment and market demand, especially as travelers from around the world reassess travel corridors in the post-pandemic era and seek convenient, direct options.
Officials point to continued interest from multiple Russian carriers in extending services from Russia to Georgia’s major airports, including Tbilisi, Kutaisi, and Batumi. The conversation around these potential services reflects Georgia’s strategic aim to enhance tourism reach, secure diverse international air connections, and support economic activity linked to travel and hospitality. For Western travelers planning trips to Georgia, the expansion could translate into more competition on pricing, increased schedule flexibility, and a broader set of departure options from Moscow that align with vacation or business calendars. Industry observers in Canada and the United States are noting how these shifts in regional air service may influence fare trends, visa requirements, and travel itineraries as Georgia continues to position itself as a gateway to the South Caucasus. The broader implication is a more open and dynamic travel environment for international visitors who want to explore Georgia’s cities, coastlines, and mountain regions.
Earlier in the year, top government officials signaled a warming in ties that could influence air travel flows between Russia and Georgia. A notable policy change involved relaxing entry and visa-related controls, part of a broader conversation about regional cooperation and mobility. The move was welcomed by Georgian leadership as a step toward normalizing travel and expanding opportunities for cross-border exchange. For travelers from North America and other parts of the world, these policy shifts may translate into simpler planning and greater confidence when booking flights that connect Russia with Georgian destinations. The evolving landscape suggests that Georgia’s aviation market is adapting to growing demand and a renewed interest from international carriers seeking access to this strategic corridor.
As the Moscow–Tbilisi route becomes established, travelers are advised to monitor official carrier advisories, airport notices, and government updates for any adjustments to schedules or permit terms. The ticket price range underscores the option for different traveler profiles, from those seeking affordable fares to flyers who prioritize travel time and comfort. The development also raises questions about how other Gulf, European, and North American travelers might leverage this corridor as part of broader trips that weave together Georgia with neighboring regions. In the current environment, direct flights between major capitals and regional gateways often serve as a catalyst for tourism, business, and cultural exchange, which is precisely the kind of activity that supports Georgia’s ongoing economic and social momentum. Citations: TASS, Georgian Civil Aviation Agency, and official government briefings.