No go for low cost airlines

No low cost flights to Montenegro anytime soon

Montenegro, a country whose economy is centred on tourism, is yet to attract any low cost airline. It seems that no low cost carrier is interested in beginning services to the country although the Montenegrin newspaper “Vijesti” outlines that the Montenegrin Government has not extended a helpful hand either. The ministry for transportation, maritime affairs and telecommunications says that people should be aware of the dark side of low cost airlines. “Low cost airlines that are interested in commencing services to Montenegro want certain amenities, such as lower airport taxes, reduced airport handling fees and so on. If we allow this to happen we would seriously be infringing competitiveness regulations and equal rights for all”, the ministry outlines. The ministry also added that no low cost airline has been issued permits to operate to Montenegro because no airline has asked for one.

The ministry has rejected claims that the Government is protecting the state owned Montenegro Airlines, which will end the year on a positive note, with more passengers and a break even balance sheet. Many Montenegrins are opting to fly out of Dubrovnik in Croatia with low cost carriers, the newspaper adds. Montenegro’s ministry of tourism says that it is trying to attract high-end tourists and present Montenegro as a luxurious tourist destination for the rich and famous.

Do you think low cost airlines could turn a profit on services to Podgorica and Tivat? Send a comment with your thoughts.