Podgorica Airport recorded 1.584 million passengers in the first eight months of 2026, marking a 30.1% year-on-year increase as expanded airline capacity drove higher traffic through Montenegro’s capital.
Passenger Growth Accelerates During Summer
Traffic increased by 366,512 passengers compared with the same period of 2025. Growth was particularly strong in August, when 348,628 passengers passed through Podgorica Airport, representing a 47.6% increase from August a year earlier. The expansion has been supported by Wizz Air’s two-aircraft base in Podgorica, which opened in March and added capacity and new connections to the capital’s air network.
Montenegro’s Two Airports Handle More Than 2.67 Million Passengers
Tivat Airport handled an additional 1.091 million passengers during the first eight months of the year. Combined passenger traffic at Montenegro’s two main airports therefore exceeded 2.67 million during the period. The increase in available air capacity is supporting access for tourists, business travellers and the diaspora, while also contributing to activity across hotels, restaurants, transport companies and other service industries.
Podgorica’s traffic growth is particularly relevant because the capital is less dependent on the traditional coastal summer peak associated with Tivat and can serve business and year-round travel. An expanded network can also improve access to northern and central Montenegro, including destinations such as Kolašin and areas around national parks.
Rising Traffic Increases Airport Infrastructure Requirements
The rapid increase in passenger numbers is also increasing requirements for terminal capacity, baggage handling, aircraft stands, ground transport and other airport services. For Montenegro, the expansion of airline capacity places greater importance on whether airport infrastructure can accommodate continued traffic growth. Improved capacity would support stronger air connectivity for tourism, investment and service exports over the coming years.
