Montenegro’s airport and tourism sectors have recorded increased activity in 2026, with Aerodromi Crne Gore handling almost 1.5 million passengers from the beginning of the year until early July, representing growth of approximately 17% compared with the same period in 2025. The airport operator expects total passenger traffic to rise by around 18% in 2026, reaching approximately 3.63 million passengers for the full year. Forecast net profit is projected at €13.37 million, slightly above the estimated €13.01 million achieved in 2025.
Passenger growth has been supported by the establishment of Wizz Air’s first Podgorica base in late March, which introduced 17 new routes, along with expanded services from British Airways, Iberia and other airlines. The additional air connections have increased Montenegro’s accessibility beyond traditional regional and charter markets, particularly improving links with destinations in western and central Europe.
Airport capacity pressures increase with traffic expansion
The stronger passenger figures have improved the financial outlook of the airport operator, while also increasing demands on existing infrastructure. Higher traffic volumes are placing additional pressure on terminal capacity, ground-handling services, access roads and surrounding urban infrastructure. Continued double-digit passenger growth is strengthening the investment case for airport expansion, while any future concession or long-term operating arrangement would need to address capacity development commitments alongside financial considerations.
Budva records higher tourist numbers
In Budva, around 36,000 tourists were registered on 11 July, approximately 5% more than a year earlier. Higher occupancy levels were reported across multiple accommodation categories, including hotels, private accommodation, resorts, hostels and campsites. Tourism-tax revenues collected during the first half of the year also exceeded the level recorded in the same period of 2025.
The figures point to stronger activity at the beginning of the peak summer season, while accommodation volumes remain only one factor affecting business performance. Hotel and restaurant margins continue to depend on operating costs, including labour expenses, food prices, municipal charges, traffic conditions and booking periods.
Chamber of Commerce launches MICE tourism initiative
The Chamber of Commerce of Montenegro has established a dedicated group focused on the congress and meetings industry. The initiative aims to develop the MICE segment, which is associated with higher visitor spending and could contribute to tourism activity outside the main July and August peak period.
