Aerodromi Crne Gore reported handling nearly 1.5 million passengers from January to early July, marking a 17% increase compared to the same period in 2022. The airport operator anticipates an annual traffic rise of approximately 18% to 3.63 million passengers, with a projected net profit of €13.37 million.
The establishment of Wizz Air’s first base in Podgorica in late March, featuring 17 new routes, has enhanced connectivity from western and central Europe. Additionally, increased services from British Airways, Iberia, and other international airlines are decreasing reliance on regional traffic and traditional summer charter flights.
In early August, Tivat recorded around 10,870 registered visitors, an 8% increase year-on-year, suggesting that the peak tourist season remains robust despite ongoing concerns regarding traffic congestion, service quality, and elevated prices.
The core issue lies in physical capacity constraints. The surge in passenger numbers is exerting pressure on terminals, baggage handling systems, aprons, road access, and urban infrastructure. Montenegro has been contemplating an airport concession for several years, with modernization estimates for Podgorica and Tivat airports ranging between €250 million and €300 million.
Prolonged indecision regarding ownership could lead to a situation where demand exceeds service quality. While rising passenger figures may boost Aerodromi Crne Gore’s revenues, overcrowded terminals and unreliable ground access could adversely affect the overall tourism experience and deter airlines from expanding year-round operations.
The Montenegrin government is also facilitating the relocation of the EXIT festival to the country. Events planned in Ulcinj and Budva are expected to result in at least 210,000 overnight stays and over €40 million in direct visitor spending, supported by proposed funding of €1.5 million from the central government along with contributions from local municipalities.
This anticipated economic impact is contingent upon accurate attendance figures, the attraction of new visitors rather than merely displacing existing ones, effective tax revenue capture, and the capability of local infrastructure. The value of event tourism is maximized when it boosts demand during shoulder seasons instead of exacerbating congestion during already busy summer periods.
