Arkia wants Montenegro

Arkia Israel Airlines holds talks with Montenegro’s Government

Arkia Israel Airlines has opened preliminary talks to purchase 30% of Montenegro Airlines’ shares which were recently offered by the Montenegrin Government. During a visit to Israel last week, the Montenegrin Prime Minister, Milo Đukanović, and the Minister for Tourism, Predrag Nenezić, met with the Arkia’s owner as well as its CEO, the Israeli based “Globes” newspaper writes. The two sides talked about a possible acquisition. Arkia is also interested in opening hotels on Montenegro’s coast.

Arkia is the second largest airline in Israel after the national carrier El-Al. It offers scheduled and charter flights to 19 destinations with a fleet of 12 aircraft, with 2 Boeing B787 Dreamliners on order. Last year, El-Al Israel Airlines expressed interest in Montenegro Airlines.

Two weeks ago a privatisation advisor for the 30% sale was chosen. Airlines have up until December 15, 2010 to send in their bids.