Mestia Queen Tamar Airport

Mestia, GE 🇬🇪 Small Airport Scheduled Service

ICAO

UGMS

IATA

Elevation

4778 ft

Region

GE-SZ

Local Time

Airport Information

GPS Code: UGMS

Local Code: Not available

Location: 43.053597° N, 42.749012° E

Continent: EU

Type: Small Airport

Terminal Information Not Available
Terminal arrivals and departures are only available for airports with scheduled commercial service and IATA codes.

External Links

Wikipedia ✓ Live Flights

Airport Authority

Links verified by AI • Last updated: Nov 21, 2025

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What Travelers Say

AI-Generated Summary Based on web research

Mestia Queen Tamar Airport (UGMS) elicits a mixed but generally appreciative sentiment from travelers, primarily due to its breathtaking location and unique design. While many are captivated by its architecture and the stunning mountain scenery, practical challenges related to flight reliability are a significant point of contention. The airport is also undergoing a major modernization with a new terminal planned for 2025, promising enhanced traveler experiences.

What Travelers Love

Unique and architecturally distinctive terminal: The airport is recognized globally for its striking design, with its modern glass and timber structure harmonizing with the natural mountain surroundings. The new terminal, designed with inspiration from Queen Tamar's royal garments, is set to further enhance this architectural appeal.
Breathtaking scenic views: The airport's location amidst the Caucasus Mountains provides unparalleled panoramic views during flights and upon arrival, serving as a memorable gateway to the Svaneti region.
Gateway to Svaneti: It serves as a crucial link to Mestia and the surrounding Svaneti region, which is popular for skiing, hiking, and cultural landmarks.

Common Complaints

Frequent flight cancellations: A significant portion of flights (approximately half) are canceled due to poor visibility, as the airport lacks a radar guidance system, relying solely on visual flight rules.
Challenging flying conditions: The demanding approach due to high mountains, narrow valleys, and the absence of navigation aids makes landings particularly difficult, impacting flight regularity.
Limited flight options: Flights are exclusively operated by Vanilla Sky to Natakhtari (near Tbilisi) and Kutaisi, restricting travel flexibility.
Strict baggage weight limits: Passengers are generally restricted to 15 kg of luggage, including hand luggage.

While the existing facilities are functional for a small domestic airport, the upcoming new terminal in 2025 is anticipated to significantly improve the traveler experience with a streamlined, open layout, natural light, and modern amenities designed to handle increased passenger traffic. Travelers should be aware of the flight cancellation risks when planning their journeys to Mestia, despite the allure of the scenic air travel.

Generated False weeks ago

This summary is automatically generated by AI based on web research of traveler reviews and experiences. AI-generated content may not always be 100% accurate.

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Airport Routes

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For Pilots

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Ground Transportation

Last updated: Nov 21, 2025

Taxis

Taxis are the primary and most convenient option. Drivers with private cars and 4x4 vehicles typically wait for scheduled flight arrivals. The airport is very close to Mestia town (2-3 km), so the ride is short. It is highly recommended to agree on the fare with the driver before starting your trip, as taxis are not metered. Many guesthouses can also pre-arrange an airport transfer for you.

Rental Cars

There are no international car rental company desks located directly at the airport terminal. Car rentals must be arranged in advance through local providers in Mestia town or from larger cities like Kutaisi or Tbilisi. A 4x4 vehicle is strongly recommended if you plan to explore the mountain roads and villages around Svaneti. Pre-booking is essential, especially during peak tourist season.

Public Transportation

There is no scheduled public bus or marshrutka (minibus) service that directly serves Mestia Airport. The airport is not integrated into the local public transport network. To connect to a marshrutka for travel to other destinations (like Ushguli or Zugdidi), you must first take a taxi from the airport into the center of Mestia, where the main bus station is located.

Distances are approximate and calculated as straight-line distances.