Montenegro Airlines' passenger numbers decline

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Montenegro Airlines handled 568.591 passengers in 2017, representing a decrease of 2.2% on the year before. The dip in numbers is slightly less than the 5% decline the carrier initially anticipated. The airline maintained operations with five aircraft compared to six in 2016 and operated a total of 6.959 flights. "In addition to achieving these results with a fleet of five aircraft, the figures are even more encouraging after taking into account the growing competition on the market. In January 2017 there were twelve airlines operating to Montenegro and up to 54 in July", Montenegro Airlines said in a statement. The airline is undergoing a restructuring process aimed at reducing its losses and debt. Consultancy firm Deloitte is currently finalising an analysis of the company's development potential as commissioned by the Montenegrin government. Furthermore, the carrier's management is drafting a five-year business plan, which includes a review of the company's fleet and finances. Montenegro Airlines plans to boost operations in 2018 with new charter flights to Tehran, seasonal services from Tivat to Leipzig, Munich and Copenhagen, as well as additional frequencies to Lyon. It aims to handle 620.000 travellers during this year.