German investor Maik Steinmeier, owner of Elite Private Jet Service, is interested in building an airport in Berane but is still waiting for government approval to start the project. Although the airport was publicly announced in 2023, it has since faded from public attention, with current discussions focusing more on concessions for the airports in Golubovci and Tivat.
Steinmeier explains that the plan is to first develop the Berane airport as it represents a great opportunity for the development of northern Montenegro, with positive regional impact. He sees this project as a way to prove to the government their capability to successfully manage airports and build a new airport from scratch, which could strengthen their position for future negotiations regarding other airports in Montenegro.
He points out that Montenegro’s airports need at least €600 million for modernization and development. Due to various challenges, including land and capacity issues, any concessionaire of Tivat or Podgorica airports will face significant difficulties in making substantial improvements.
Steinmeier believes that public-private partnerships are the best model for airport development in Montenegro, allowing both the government and private investors to collaborate in decision-making and protect public interests while encouraging investment.
He confirms that the option for a strategic partnership on Montenegrin airports remains open but is not yet imminent.
