However, after the earthquake in 1988, the airport became largely inoperable and practically unused until it was partially renewed in 2004.

A new Finnish IDMAN light-signal system has been installed since, repair works have been carried out in the ramp, and special ground handling technics have been imported.

A new arrivals area was inaugurated on September 16, 2021, increasing the airport's capacity to 700,000 passengers per year.

Runway resurfacing works were completed on September 16, 2021, as part of a large-scale modernisation program for the airport.

The airport also serves as an airbase for the Armenian Air Force, which has a large maintenance and operations base with several combat and training aircraft stationed at the north-east of the airfield.