Aerodromi Crne Gore reported handling nearly 1.5 million passengers from the start of 2026 through early July, marking an increase of approximately 17% compared to the same timeframe in 2025. The airport operator anticipates an overall rise in passenger traffic of around 18% for the full year, projecting a total of about 3.63 million passengers. The expected net profit for the year is €13.37 million, slightly higher than the estimated €13.01 million achieved in 2025.
This growth trajectory has been bolstered by the establishment of Wizz Air’s first Podgorica base in late March, which introduced 17 new routes. Additionally, enhanced services from airlines such as British Airways and Iberia have contributed to improved accessibility for Montenegro, particularly for travelers from western and central Europe beyond traditional regional and charter markets.
The airport operator’s financial outlook remains positive; however, the increase in traffic places additional demands on terminal capacity, ground handling, access roads, and urban infrastructure. The sustained double-digit growth in passenger numbers reinforces the case for investing in airport facilities, although any potential long-term operating agreements must prioritize commitments to capacity expansion rather than focusing solely on immediate concession revenues.
In Budva, approximately 36,000 tourists were recorded on 11 July, reflecting a rise of around 5% compared to the previous year. Hotel occupancy rates have also shown improvement across various types of accommodations including private rentals, resorts, hostels, and campsites. Furthermore, tourism tax revenues during the first half of the year surpassed those from the equivalent period in 2025.
The data suggests a robust beginning to the peak tourist season; however, increased accommodation volumes do not necessarily guarantee enhanced profitability. Factors such as labor costs, food prices, municipal fees, traffic congestion, and shorter booking periods continue to influence margins for hotels and restaurants.
The Montenegro Chamber of Commerce has initiated a dedicated group focused on congress and meetings industries to cultivate the MICE segment. This initiative aims to attract higher spending visitors and could help maintain occupancy rates beyond the busy months of July and August.
