Montenegro has selected ToMontenegro to operate five subsidised routes from Podgorica to European destinations, with the services intended to strengthen connectivity during periods when commercial demand may not be sufficient to maintain year-round flights independently.
ToMontenegro Selected for Five European Routes
The state-owned airline will operate public-service-obligation services to Brussels, Paris, Frankfurt, Zagreb and Bari. The routes are intended to support access to European markets where passenger demand throughout the year may not independently sustain the required services. For hotels, tour operators and other tourism businesses, the impact of improved connectivity will depend on flight schedules, frequency and the ability to convert additional access into bookings. Extended air connectivity can support a longer tourism season, while accommodation, attractions and other tourism services would need to remain available beyond the peak period.
Airport Traffic Adds Pressure on Operations
Growing passenger numbers are already increasing pressure on airport operations. Airports of Montenegro announced €500 bonuses for approximately 760 operational employees, citing their contribution during the summer season and the pressure caused by infrastructure limitations. The company reported handling three million passengers, reaching that level substantially earlier than in the previous year.
Tourism Businesses Face Additional Tax Considerations
Proposals to increase accommodation and excursion taxes represent another factor for tourism operators. Additional revenue could be directed toward destination services, while businesses will also assess the potential impact of higher charges on total visitor costs. The five subsidised routes provide Montenegro with an opportunity to expand its tourism calendar, with their economic contribution ultimately linked to passenger volumes and visitor spending during periods when existing capacity is less heavily used.
