The Government of Montenegro has presented an updated draft of the National Transport Development Strategy 2019–2035, setting out a revised framework for the long-term transformation of the country’s transport system. The interim document outlines a strategic shift toward stronger EU alignment, modernised aviation governance, clearer Public Service Obligation (PSO) rules, and an accelerated decarbonisation pathway across all transport modes.
At the centre of the update is aviation policy, reflecting the structural importance of air connectivity for a tourism-driven economy. With international arrivals forming a decisive component of national GDP, the strategy positions Montenegro’s two main airports – Podgorica and Tivat – as critical infrastructure assets rather than purely operational facilities. The document signals a move toward operational modernisation, energy efficiency upgrades, digitalisation of passenger processing, and integration into broader multimodal transport corridors.
The government acknowledges the structural seasonality of demand, particularly at the coast, and underlines the need for more resilient capacity planning. Airport development is framed not only as a question of infrastructure expansion but also of environmental compliance and alignment with EU aviation standards, including safety, air traffic management reform, and emissions reduction benchmarks.
A significant policy adjustment concerns the future use of Public Service Obligation (PSO) routes. The strategy clarifies that PSO mechanisms should function as targeted and time-limited corrective tools, rather than long-term market substitutes. Subsidised routes are envisaged primarily for safeguarding essential connectivity during low-demand winter months or on socially and economically strategic corridors that lack commercial viability.
The revised framework stresses transparency, competitive tendering, and strict compliance with EU state aid and competition rules. In this context, PSO schemes are to be structured in a way that preserves market discipline while ensuring continuity of service where connectivity would otherwise be compromised.
Beyond aviation, the updated strategy reinforces a broader “green transition” in transport policy. The document outlines measures aimed at reducing greenhouse gas emissions across road, rail, maritime, and urban mobility systems. These include the expansion of electric vehicle infrastructure, alternative fuels development, modal shifts toward rail and collective transport, and deployment of intelligent transport systems (ITS).
Infrastructure planning is increasingly tied to climate resilience standards and EU environmental objectives. Decarbonisation is framed not only as a regulatory obligation but also as a competitiveness factor, especially as Montenegro advances in EU accession negotiations and seeks deeper integration into European transport markets.
Regional connectivity remains a strategic priority. Montenegro’s geographic position in the Western Balkans places it along key Trans-European Transport Network (TEN-T) corridors. The strategy emphasises the importance of strengthening multimodal links between ports, airports, railways, and road infrastructure, while improving border-crossing efficiency and digital customs procedures.
Institutional reform is another pillar of the update. The government proposes strengthening regulatory capacity, enhancing safety oversight, and modernising transport governance frameworks in line with the EU acquis. This includes improved performance metrics for infrastructure operators, enhanced transparency in public procurement, and clearer investment planning cycles.
The document serves as an interim revision and is expected to lead to a finalised strategy that will define measurable targets, implementation timelines, and financing structures. Given the scope of ambition – from airport modernisation to environmental compliance and PSO restructuring – the 2035 horizon implies substantial capital investment and potential private-sector participation in infrastructure upgrades.
Through this updated strategy, Montenegro signals an intention to balance economic growth, social connectivity, and environmental responsibility. The transport system is positioned as a strategic enabler of competitiveness, tourism resilience, and EU integration over the next decade.
