The Government of Montenegro has released an interim report updating its Transport Development Strategy 2019 - 2035, which will form the basis of the final revised strategy. The update seeks to align the country’s existing transport framework with evolving EU policies, market realities and the accelerating green and digital transition. Although it covers all modes of transport, the aviation segment stands out as particularly significant, focusing on airports, Public Service Obligation (PSO) flights, the role of the national carrier and air navigation services as the core pillars of Montenegro’s air transport system.

Aviation is viewed as the country’s primary gateway to international connectivity, especially given Montenegro’s heavy reliance on tourism and pronounced seasonality in demand. The strategy reflects the need for further alignment with EU initiatives, notably the Sustainable and Smart Mobility Strategy and the Single European Sky framework. Airports in Podgorica and Tivat are expected to evolve beyond basic infrastructure assets into energy-efficient and operationally optimised systems capable of meeting decarbonisation targets and reducing environmental impact, while also integrating more effectively into multimodal transport networks.

The PSO model is recognised as an important tool for safeguarding connectivity, but the document signals that it must be more clearly defined, transparent and time-limited in line with EU state aid and competition rules. It is positioned as a corrective mechanism where the market fails, rather than a permanent substitute for commercial operations. While Air Montenegro is not explicitly detailed, its role is implicitly framed within this context as a stabilising factor, particularly during the winter season and on strategically important routes, with an emphasis on maintaining compliance with EU competition standards. Air traffic control is identified as critical infrastructure, requiring continued regulatory harmonisation, digitalisation and operational resilience to support traffic growth without compromising safety.