Passenger traffic at Montenegro’s airports rose 20.5% year on year in the second quarter of 2026, as stronger connectivity and tourism demand lifted activity at the country’s two main aviation gateways. The increase comes as the Government reopens the strategic question of how Podgorica and Tivat airports should be operated and financed, following a decision to move away from the previous concession process. Airline capacity has expanded alongside passenger growth. The establishment of a Wizz Air base in Podgorica is adding aircraft capacity and routes, supporting more consistent connectivity throughout the year rather than depending primarily on seasonal operations.
The latest traffic figures highlight the importance of aviation to Montenegro’s tourism sector, which relies heavily on air connections, particularly to attract higher-spending visitors from markets outside the neighbouring region. At the same time, the Government has effectively returned the earlier concession procedure for Podgorica and Tivat airports to the drawing board. The previous process had reached the stage at which an international consortium had been proposed as the preferred bidder.
The change leaves several possible approaches for the country’s airport infrastructure. Montenegro could continue financing development through its publicly owned airport operator, restart or redesign the concession process, or pursue another form of partnership. Whichever ownership or operating structure is selected, the airports face significant capital requirements.
Tivat is dealing with pronounced seasonal capacity constraints, while Podgorica needs to accommodate higher passenger volumes, new airline bases and an increasingly year-round operating pattern. Airport infrastructure has a direct bearing on the capacity of the tourism sector. Hotel construction and tourism promotion cannot translate fully into additional economic activity if limitations involving runways, terminals, baggage systems and ground handling restrict the efficient expansion of air traffic.
The 20.5% increase in passenger traffic indicates that demand itself is not the immediate constraint. The central issue is whether airport investment and governance arrangements can develop at a pace that matches the growth in traffic. The debate over Montenegro’s airports has consequently shifted from a narrow question of privatisation toward the financing structure capable of supporting the country’s expanding aviation market.
