Low-cost carrier Wizz Air is significantly expanding its presence in Montenegro by establishing a new operational base at Podgorica Airport. This strategic move, set to commence in March 2026, will introduce 14 new routes connecting Montenegro’s capital to key European cities, bolstering tourism and economic opportunities for the Balkan nation.
Key Takeaways
- Wizz Air will open a new base at Podgorica Airport in March 2026.
- Fourteen new European routes will be launched from Podgorica.
- Two Airbus A321neo aircraft will be stationed at the new base.
- The expansion is expected to create approximately 80 direct jobs and 700 indirect jobs.
- The airline aims to offer an additional one million seats annually from Podgorica.
Podgorica Becomes a New European Hub
Wizz Air’s decision to establish a base in Podgorica marks a significant milestone for Montenegro’s aviation and tourism sectors. Starting in March 2026, the airline will launch 14 new routes, linking the Montenegrin capital to major European destinations such as Paris, Rome, Barcelona, Hamburg, Basel, and Cologne. This expansion aims to enhance Montenegro’s connectivity to Western and Central Europe, fostering new tourism and business opportunities.
Expanded Route Network
The 14 new routes from Podgorica Airport will significantly improve flight connectivity across Europe. Some of the key new destinations include:
- Paris
- Rome
- Barcelona
- Hamburg
- Basel Mulhouse
- Cologne
- Ljubljana
- Gdańsk
- Maastricht
- Rzeszów
- Malmö
- Poznań
- Wrocław
- Baden Baden
By summer 2026, Wizz Air will operate a total of 23 routes from Podgorica, positioning the city as a significant regional hub for budget travel.
Economic Impact and Job Creation
The establishment of Wizz Air’s new base is projected to have a substantial positive impact on Montenegro’s economy. The airline anticipates creating around 80 direct jobs at Podgorica Airport, with an additional estimated 700 indirect jobs across various industries, including tourism, hospitality, and transportation. The increased accessibility is expected to drive tourism to popular destinations like Kotor and Budva, benefiting local businesses and contributing to economic growth.
Commitment to Sustainability
Wizz Air will station two modern Airbus A321neo aircraft at the Podgorica base. These aircraft are known for their fuel efficiency, aligning with Wizz Air’s commitment to reducing emissions and promoting more environmentally friendly travel options. This initiative reflects a broader industry trend towards sustainable aviation practices.
Strengthening Nordic-Balkan Ties
In addition to the broader European expansion, Wizz Air is also launching direct flights between Malmö, Sweden, and Podgorica starting March 29, 2026. This route, operating four times weekly, will enhance connectivity between Northern Europe and the Balkans, facilitating travel for leisure, business, and family visits, and further strengthening bilateral ties and regional tourism economies.
Wizz Air Expands Montenegro Operations with New Routes and Base
- Now, Wizz Air Links Montenegro, France, Italy, Spain, Germany, Poland, Sweden, Ukraine, Greece, and More in
Massive New European Network, Travel And Tour World. - Wizz Air to open Montenegro base in March | Montenegro Investments News, SeeNews.
- Wizz Air to Launch Direct Malmö-Podgorica Flights in 2026, Enhancing Tourism in Sweden and Montenegro –
Travel And Tour World, Travel And Tour World.
