The Committee for Economy, Finance and Budget has proposed to the Parliament amendments to the Air Traffic Law, which suggest the introduction of Public Service Obligation (PSO) routes in Montenegro’s legislation. This initiative aligns with European Union directives, as most EU member states have already implemented similar provisions.
The amendments were proposed by the parliamentary group of the Democratic People’s Party (DNP) through changes to Article 37 of the current Air Traffic Law.
Transport Minister Maja Vukićević explained that in April 2021, the Government tasked the Ministry of Capital Investments, in cooperation with the Civil Aviation Agency (ACV), to deliver this law.
She highlighted that the proposed amendments contain three key changes.
The first change focuses on aligning the limits of liability for air carriers with the Montreal Convention, based on recommendations from the International Civil Aviation Organization (ICAO). This involves increasing the liability limits for carriers in case of damage.
The second change addresses the protection of passengers’ rights in the event of flight delays and cancellations. The amendment regulates the process and timelines for submitting complaints.
The third change introduces inspection oversight and control, which will be carried out by the Ministry of Transport and the ACV.
“The primary beneficiaries of these changes will be passengers, as new mechanisms are being introduced to help them receive compensation more quickly if their rights are violated by carriers. Inspections will be conducted by inspectors in accordance with existing regulations related to inspection oversight,” emphasized Vukićević.
