✈️ Caspian Corridor Heats Up as Baku Hub Widens Its Lead Over Tbilisi
Baku is solidifying its position as the business aviation gateway to the South Caucasus. According to Avi-Go data, from early 2026 through July 24, Baku UBBB recorded 2,259 business jet movements (1,131 departures, 1,128 arrivals), averaging about 11.02 movements per day—a 44.4% increase over the daily average of 7.63 during January to May 2025. Over the same period, Tbilisi UGTB rose from a daily average of 3.52 to 4.55 movements, up 29.3%, for a cumulative 932 movements, roughly 40% of Baku's volume. The passenger source structure differs markedly: the top source country for both airports is Turkey (UBBB 139 movements, UGTB 60), but Baku's traffic extends into long-haul markets such as the UK at 82, Spain at 73, and the UAE at 52, whereas Tbilisi is more concentrated in surrounding regions such as Azerbaijan, Armenia, and Russia.
Impact: Baku's long-haul traffic and higher daily activity are strengthening its role as a transit and business hub along the Caspian Corridor. Although Tbilisi is growing in tandem, its localized traffic structure limits its potential for hub spillover, and the division of roles between the two airports is becoming increasingly clear.
Recommendation: FBOs and ground handling providers serving Baku should expand transit and fuel support capacity for long-haul flights before Q3 2026, focusing on connecting with UK, Spanish, and UAE traffic. Brokers can lock in interline and short-stop capacity within the Baku-Tbilisi region ahead of the Q4 peak season.