The Montenegrin government is poised to announce the new concessionaire for Podgorica and Tivat airports on June 9. This decision follows the submission of two bids for a thirty-year management contract, marking a significant step in the long-awaited concession process aimed at enhancing airport services and attracting investment.
Key Takeaways
- The Montenegrin government will announce the new airport management concessionaire on June 9.
- Two bids have been submitted: Incheon International Airport Corporation and Corporacion America Airports.
- The evaluation process for the bids is expected to conclude within thirty days.
- Concerns have been raised by airport workers regarding transparency and employee rights.
Bidding Process Overview
The bidding process for the management of Montenegro’s key airports has been a focal point for the government, aiming to improve infrastructure and services. The two contenders are:
- Incheon International Airport Corporation
- Corporacion America Airports
The bids were officially opened on May 9, and the Tender Commission is currently evaluating them, with a decision expected shortly.
Concerns Over Transparency
The airport workers’ union has expressed significant concerns regarding the concession process. Key issues include:
- Lack of Transparency: Workers fear that the bidding process lacks sufficient oversight and clarity.
- Employee Rights: There are calls for legal guarantees to protect labor agreements amid potential changes in management.
- Absence of Worker Representation: The union criticized the lack of representation in the tender commission, which could impact negotiations and worker rights.
Bidding Criteria
To qualify for the bidding process, companies must meet specific criteria, including:
- Airport Operations:
- At least one airport handling a minimum of five million international passengers annually over the past three years.
- Alternatively, operation of a single airport with at least ten million international passengers in the same timeframe.
- Experience Requirements:
- Must have experience in the development, design, engineering, procurement, and construction of airport projects valued at a minimum of 300 million euros over the last decade, including at least one project worth 100 million euros.
Conclusion
As Montenegro prepares to make a pivotal decision regarding its airport management, the outcome will not only influence the future of Podgorica and Tivat airports but also set a precedent for how the country approaches public-private partnerships in the aviation sector. The government’s choice will be closely watched by stakeholders, including employees, investors, and travelers alike, as it seeks to enhance the overall travel experience in Montenegro.
Sources
- Montenegro to decide who takes over country’s airports next month, EX-YU Aviation.
