Montenegro’s Transport Minister Discusses Airport Concession Bids

Montenegro’s Transport Minister, Maja Vukicevic, expressed her views on the recent bids for the concession of Montenegro’s airports, stating that the offers could have been significantly improved. In an interview with Pobjeda, she highlighted the country’s capacity to develop its aviation sector independently, referencing past successes in airport management.

On November 12, 2023, the Ministry of Transport released a ranked list of bidders for the airport concession process, compiled by the Tenders Committee. The top-ranked bidder is the South Korean company Incheon International Airport Corporation (IIAC), followed closely by the Luxembourg-American firm Corporacion America Airports (CAAP). Vukicevic noted that the Ministry has a thirty-day timeframe to submit documentation to the government for review and final decision-making. This timeline may be affected if any bidders file a complaint with the government’s concession commission.

Vukicevic addressed questions regarding the decision timeline for the airport concessions, stating, “The Tenders Committee has completed its task of evaluating the bids. The Ministry of Transport has thirty days to deliver documentation to the government for final decision-making, contingent upon any objections from bidders.” She added that the window for objections is set at fifteen days from the publication of the bid documents.

In evaluating the submitted bids, Vukicevic commented on the importance of low-cost carriers for Montenegro’s tourism and economy. She emphasized that the presence of budget airlines is crucial for providing affordable travel options for citizens. “The Ministry of Transport and Montenegro Airports have made significant efforts to reintroduce low-cost airlines to Montenegro,” she explained.

Vukicevic believes that if the airports are ultimately handed over to a concessionaire, it is essential to ensure cooperation with low-cost airlines. “This collaboration is vital for our country,” she stated, referring to the importance of budget airlines in enhancing tourism and travel accessibility.

Reflecting on the government’s management of airports, Vukicevic asserted, “We have demonstrated our capability to manage airports effectively.” She pointed to exceptional passenger numbers, anticipating reaching three million travelers for the first time in history, despite challenges related to flight operations by Turkish Airlines. She also noted significant achievements, such as securing a record number of flights and destinations for the upcoming year, including the introduction of services by Wizz Air and interest from British Airways and Ryanair.

Vukicevic expressed pride in the accomplishments of Montenegro Airports and its management team, highlighting their positive collaboration. “The current management is doing an outstanding job, and I am particularly pleased with the performance of Roko Tolic, the Director of Montenegro Airports,” she stated. “He is a top expert in this field, and we should retain him for as long as possible.”

Regarding the national airline, ToMontenegro, Vukicevic noted its successful performance this year and commended the management, particularly Vukadin Stojanovic, the executive director. “My belief in hiring a local expert for our national airline has proven correct, as shown by the results achieved under his leadership,” she remarked.

On the construction of the second section of the Bar-Boljare highway from Mateshevo to Andrijevica, Vukicevic confirmed that four bids were submitted, three of which came from consortiums. The tender process is managed by the company Monteput in collaboration with the European Bank for Reconstruction and Development (EBRD). She expressed satisfaction with the interest shown in the tender, stating, “We consider this tender successful in terms of the number of bids received.”

Vukicevic explained that the timeline for selecting a contractor depends on Monteput and the EBRD’s evaluation process. “Once the contractor is chosen, construction will commence, but the timing is contingent upon the evaluation committee’s timeline,” she added.

The Minister also addressed the ongoing challenges faced by railway companies in Montenegro, acknowledging an improvement in operations this year. While there are still issues related to outstanding tax debts, she noted improvements in service regularity and train maintenance. “We have initiated the procurement process for new trains, and we expect to sign contracts with the EIB and EBRD regarding railway reconstruction soon,” Vukicevic stated.

She concluded by referencing a budget prepared by the Ministry of Finance that includes guarantees for railway companies, which she believes will significantly enhance the quality of service provided. The ongoing merger of Zeljeznicki Prevoz (ZPCG) and Odrzavanje Zeljeznickih Voznih Sredstava (OZVS) is also progressing, with expectations for completion within the planned timeframe.