The Best Airports in Montenegro
Given that Montenegro is one of the smaller countries in the Balkan region with a population of approximately 630,000 people, it might come as a surprise to learn that there are two international airports currently in operation which both offer a range of international flights to meet the growing demand from tourists, business travellers and citizens.
In this guide, we’ll explore the best airports in Montenegro, their routes, airlines, passenger numbers, facilities, and plans for growth.
The Best Airports in Montenegro
Given that Montenegro is one of the smaller countries in the Balkan region with a population of approximately 630,000 people, it might come as a surprise to learn that there are two international airports currently in operation which both offer a range of international flights to meet the growing demand from tourists, business travellers and citizens.
In this guide, we’ll explore the best airports in Montenegro, their routes, airlines, passenger numbers, facilities, and plans for growth.
Podgorica Airport (TGD)
Located in the capital city, Podgorica Airport is Montenegro's main international airport and the busiest in terms of passenger traffic. It serves as a key gateway to the country and handles the majority of Montenegro's air traffic.
Podgorica Airport connects to many major European cities and regular flights operate to and from destinations like London, Paris, Istanbul, Vienna, and Zurich. Airlines serving Podgorica Airport include Montenegro Airlines, Ryanair, Turkish Airlines, Austrian Airlines, Lufthansa, and easyJet.
In 2023, Podgorica Airport handled approximately 1.3 million passengers. With tourism in Montenegro growing, this figure is expected to rise steadily.
The airport offers modern facilities, including duty-free shopping, cafes, car rental services, and VIP lounges. It also has ample parking and provides free Wi-Fi throughout the terminal.
Due to increasing passenger demand, the Montenegrin government is planning expansions for Podgorica Airport. This includes the potential for a second terminal and enhancements in runway capacity to handle larger aircraft, allowing for increased international flights.
Tivat Airport (TIV)
Tivat Airport is situated on the beautiful Bay of Kotor and serves as the primary gateway for tourists visiting Montenegro’s coastal towns, such as Kotor, Budva, and Herceg Novi. During the summer, the airport experiences a surge in passenger numbers, as it caters mainly to tourists flocking to the Adriatic Coast.
Tivat Airport offers seasonal flights to and from several key European destinations. Popular routes include flights to and from London, Manchester, Bristol, Belgrade, Vienna, and Zurich. Airlines such as Air Serbia, Lufthansa, Eurowings, and Easyjet Airlines operate from Tivat, alongside many seasonal charter airlines catering to holidaymakers.
Tivat Airport processed around 1.1 million passengers in 2023 and by October 2024 one million passengers had already arrived or departed through the airport, which is the first time the milestone has been reached again since 2019. In a recent statement Easyjet, who operate a number of routes between the UK and Tivat, said that their passenger numbers on those routes had already increased by 80% year on year with another 133,000 expected before the end of the month.
While Tivat is smaller than Podgorica, it still provides essential services for travelers, including car rentals, cafes, and a small duty-free shop. The airport is equipped with a VIP lounge, primarily used by high-end travelers arriving on private jets or chartered flights.
With tourism on the rise, plans for upgrading Tivat Airport have been proposed, including the extension of the runway and expanding the terminal. This will help alleviate congestion during peak season and improve the overall passenger experience.
3. Berane Airport
Located in the northern part of the country, Berane Aiport has been out of action for the last 50 years, but things are starting to move forward and German Investor Maik Steinmuller is hoping to start renovation works in early 2025. Talks have been on-going since initial interest was first raised around four years ago, but following company registration and investment, the group are now just waiting for the final go ahead from the government.
Primarily Berane will serve as Cargo Hub, however, plans do include a small passenger terminal which could prove to be a very valuable link between the Northern regions of Montenegro and the rest of Europe.
Conclusion
Montenegro’s growing popularity as a tourist destination is fuelling the need for expanded air travel infrastructure. Podgorica and Tivat airports play crucial roles in welcoming visitors to the country, with robust flight connections and plans for expansion to meet increasing demand.
With more routes and airlines flying into Montenegro each year, travelers can expect improved access and facilities in the future, making their journey to this Adriatic gem even more convenient.
Whether you're flying into the heart of Montenegro through Podgorica or landing by the coast in Tivat, these airports are well-equipped to meet the needs of all travelers.
Keep an eye on future developments as Montenegro continues to invest in its aviation infrastructure to support its tourism industry.
04.10.2024