The process of granting concessions for Montenegro’s airports is entering its final stage. Among the leading candidates under consideration are the Turkish company TAV, South Korea’s Incheon International Airport Corporation, and Luxembourg-based Corporacion America Airports (CAAP). Recently, representatives of these companies visited the airports in Podgorica and Tivat to familiarize themselves with their infrastructure and discuss possible investments with Montenegrin authorities.
What does a concession mean for Montenegro’s airports?
The transfer of management of Montenegro’s airports into a long-term concession is seen as a key step toward attracting a strategic investor who could modernize the airports, increase their capacity, and improve overall operational efficiency.The Ministry of Transport of Montenegro stated that the potential concessionaires examined the current infrastructure, assessed operational capabilities, and considered the prospects for airport expansion. The main goal of the concession process is to attract investment in the development of airports that have not undergone significant modernization since 2019.What is a concession?
A concession is a form of public-private partnership in which the state grants a private company the right to operate and manage an asset for a specified period. Under this agreement, the concessionaire undertakes obligations to invest in infrastructure, modernization, and improved operational efficiency, and also pays certain fees to the state. After the concession period ends, the airports return to state management or a new agreement is signed with a private operator.
Who is bidding to manage Montenegro’s airports?
Among the three main contenders for the concession are leading international airport operators:
Incheon International Airport Corporation (South Korea)– operates South Korea’s largest airport in Seoul. The company has already taken part in concession tenders for the airports in Zagreb and Belgrade, but lost to France’s Vinci. It also operates airports in Manila, Jakarta, and Kuwait.Corporacion America Airports (CAAP) (Luxembourg)
– owns 52 airports in Latin America and Europe, including in Argentina, Brazil, Uruguay, Ecuador, Armenia, and Italy. It previously took part in the concession competition for Belgrade Airport.- TAV Airports (Turkey)– one of the largest airport operators in the region. It manages the airports in Skopje and Ohrid in North Macedonia, and also participates in the management of Zagreb Airport through a partnership with Aéroports de Paris.
- The Turkish operator TAV is considered one of the strongest candidates thanks to its experience in the region, as well as its successful management of airports in Southeast European countries.
- Why is the concession of Montenegro’s airports so important? The transfer of the airports in Podgorica and Tivat into concession is an important strategic decision that is expected to bring a number of key benefits:
Infrastructure modernization– the new operator will invest in the reconstruction of terminals, runways, and service areas.Passenger traffic growth
– an increase in the number of flights and expansion of flight destinations is expected.Attracting new airlines– improved operating conditions will make Montenegro’s airports attractive to international carriers.Economic growth
– airport development will have a positive impact on the tourism sector, business, and the country’s overall transport connectivity.- Trade unions express concern
- The trade unions at Montenegro’s airports are expressing concern over the possible transfer of management to private operators. They are calling on the government to engage in open dialogue and consider alternative options, including the possibility of holding a referendum on the issue. Workers emphasize the strategic importance of the airports for the country’s economy and the need for a careful approach to the concession decision. The importance of the concession for the country’s infrastructure
- In his New Year’s address, Montenegro’s Prime Minister Milojko Spajić noted that 2025 will mark the beginning of a major investment cycle, including the development of infrastructure such as roads, ports, and airports. This underscores the importance of making a well-founded decision regarding the management of the country’s airports.
- When will the final decision be made?The decision to grant a concession for Montenegro’s airports is key to the further development of the country’s transport infrastructure and economy. Bringing in an experienced international partner could help modernize the airports, increase their capacity, and improve the quality of passenger service. However, it is important to take into account the views of all stakeholders and ensure transparency in the decision-making process. In the coming months, the Government of Montenegro will continue evaluating proposals from potential concessionaires and hold consultations with the public and professional communities. The final decision will be made taking into account the interests of the national economy, security, and the well-being of citizens.
Thus, the process of granting a concession for Montenegro’s airports is at a decisive stage. Successful implementation of this project could significantly enhance the country’s competitiveness on the international stage and improve the quality of transport services for residents and visitors to Montenegro.
Профсоюзы черногорских аэропортов выражают обеспокоенность по поводу возможной передачи управления частным операторам. Они призывают правительство к открытому диалогу и рассмотрению альтернативных вариантов, включая возможность проведения референдума по этому вопросу. Работники подчеркивают стратегическую важность аэропортов для экономики страны и необходимость тщательного подхода к принятию решения о концессии.
Важность концессии для инфраструктуры страны
Премьер-министр Черногории Милойко Спаич в своем новогоднем обращении отметил, что 2025 год станет началом масштабного инвестиционного цикла, включающего развитие инфраструктуры, такой как дороги, порты и аэропорты. Это подчеркивает важность принятия обоснованного решения относительно управления аэропортами страны.
Когда будет принято окончательное решение?
Решение о передаче концессии черногорских аэропортов является ключевым для дальнейшего развития транспортной инфраструктуры и экономики страны. Привлечение опытного международного партнера может способствовать модернизации аэропортов, увеличению их пропускной способности и улучшению качества обслуживания пассажиров. Однако важно учитывать мнение всех заинтересованных сторон и обеспечить прозрачность процесса принятия решений.
В ближайшие месяцы правительство Черногории продолжит оценку предложений от потенциальных концессионеров и проведет консультации с общественностью и профессиональными сообществами. Окончательное решение будет принято с учетом интересов национальной экономики, безопасности и благосостояния граждан.
Таким образом, процесс передачи концессии черногорских аэропортов находится на решающем этапе. Успешная реализация этого проекта может значительно повысить конкурентоспособность страны на международной арене и улучшить качество транспортных услуг для жителей и гостей Черногории.