Published on
December 27, 2025
Turkish Airlines has announced it will suspend its flights to Tivat, Montenegro, following the end of a visa-related fallout that had previously impacted travel to the region. This decision comes as the airline adjusts its services in light of changing travel conditions and new visa regulations. The suspension of the Tivat route is expected to have ripple effects on travelers, particularly those who have relied on Turkish Airlines for convenient connections between Montenegro and other international destinations. Here’s an in-depth look at the reasons behind the suspension, its potential impact on travelers, and what to expect moving forward.
What is the Reason Behind Turkish Airlines Suspending Tivat Service?
- Visa-Related Fallout: The suspension of the Tivat service follows the resolution of a visa-related issue that had affected Turkish Airlines’ operations. The fallout stemmed from complications in visa policies between Turkey and Montenegro, which led to a decrease in demand for the route. These complications have now been resolved, but the airline has decided to suspend the service as part of its broader network optimization strategy.
- Adjusting to Demand Fluctuations: Airlines continuously adjust their routes based on passenger demand, seasonal trends, and geopolitical factors. Turkish Airlines, in this case, is responding to changes in the market, which may have influenced its decision to suspend the Tivat route temporarily. While the visa issue may have been a major factor, overall demand for flights between Turkey and Montenegro may not justify the continued operation of this service.
Impact of the Suspension on Travelers
- Limited Direct Access to Tivat: The suspension of Turkish Airlines flights means that travelers who previously relied on the airline for direct access to Tivat, Montenegro, will now need to find alternative carriers or connect through other major hubs. This may cause inconvenience for those who had planned to fly directly to Montenegro, especially business travelers, tourists, or those attending events in the region.
- Increased Travel Time and Costs: Passengers seeking to reach Tivat from Istanbul, Turkey, may now have to take connecting flights with other airlines, potentially increasing travel time and costs. This could lead to higher airfare and longer layovers, making it less convenient for travelers seeking a quick and efficient route to the Adriatic coast.
- Impact on Tourism in Tivat: The route suspension may also affect tourism in Tivat, which is a popular tourist destination in Montenegro. Turkish Airlines’ presence in the market contributed to the flow of international tourists visiting Tivat, and its absence could result in a decrease in the number of visitors arriving directly from Turkey. Local businesses, including hotels, restaurants, and tour operators, may feel the impact of this reduction in tourist arrivals.
Advantages of Turkish Airlines’ Decision for Travelers
- Streamlining Network Operations: By suspending flights to Tivat, Turkish Airlines may be able to focus on more profitable or high-demand routes. This could lead to an improved overall travel experience for passengers on other routes, with more resources directed towards enhancing service and efficiency.
- Alternative Routes and Connections: Turkish Airlines offers a wide range of destinations, and travelers who need to get to Montenegro can still connect through other major cities in Europe. This ensures that there are still travel options available, even if they require additional connections. Turkish Airlines has an extensive network, making it easy for passengers to find alternative routes to their desired destination.
- Stronger Focus on Core Markets: The suspension of routes like Tivat allows Turkish Airlines to concentrate on its core markets where demand is stronger, leading to better flight availability and potentially lower prices for passengers on more popular routes.
Disadvantages of Turkish Airlines Suspending Tivat Service
- Limited Connectivity to Montenegro: The suspension of the Tivat service reduces direct flight options for those traveling between Turkey and Montenegro. This could make travel to the region more challenging, particularly for those who prefer the convenience of non-stop flights or who had relied on Turkish Airlines for their direct connections.
- Inconvenience for Turkish Airlines Loyalists: Frequent flyers who are loyal to Turkish Airlines may find this route suspension inconvenient, as it disrupts their usual travel plans. Passengers who have accumulated miles with the airline or are part of its loyalty program may feel disappointed by the lack of direct service to a destination they regularly visit.
- Impact on Business and Cultural Ties: The Tivat route was also important for business travelers and those attending cultural events in Montenegro. The suspension may affect these segments, as professionals and international visitors will need to adjust their schedules and make alternative arrangements. This could cause disruptions for corporate travel and international meetings.
How the Suspension Could Affect Tourism and Business in Tivat
- Reduced International Access: The suspension could potentially affect the flow of international tourists to Tivat, as the ease of direct flights from Istanbul made the destination more accessible to travelers from across the globe. Tivat is a popular summer destination, and the loss of a direct connection with Turkey could impact visitor numbers, especially those coming for leisure, cruises, or cultural exchanges.
- Business and Trade Challenges: For businesses that rely on tourism and trade between Turkey and Montenegro, the suspension of this route could create logistical challenges. Companies in both countries may need to reconsider their travel plans or find alternative ways to foster international connections, potentially increasing costs and complexity.
- Shift in Airline Competition: The absence of Turkish Airlines on the Tivat route opens the door for other airlines to step in and capture market share. Regional airlines or low-cost carriers may increase service to Tivat, creating competition for passengers who are looking for alternative routes. This could result in price changes and the introduction of new flight options for travelers.
Looking Forward: What to Expect from Turkish Airlines and the Tivat Route
- Potential Future Resumption: While Turkish Airlines has suspended flights to Tivat for now, this does not mean the route is permanently discontinued. The airline could choose to revisit the Tivat service in the future if demand for flights increases or if tourism and business conditions in the region improve. The airline may also consider resuming the service during peak tourist seasons, such as summer, when demand for flights to Montenegro typically rises.
- Alternative Travel Options: For travelers planning to visit Montenegro, it’s important to look at alternative airlines and routes. Turkish Airlines offers other flights to nearby destinations like Dubrovnik in Croatia or Podgorica, the capital of Montenegro, both of which are accessible by car or bus from Tivat. Travelers may also consider regional carriers that offer connections to the Montenegrin coast.
- Focus on Other Routes: Turkish Airlines continues to expand its global network and improve services on other high-demand routes. The airline’s focus will likely remain on maintaining its status as a leading international carrier, with a particular emphasis on connecting Turkey with key European, Middle Eastern, and Asian cities.
What Travelers Should Know
The suspension of Turkish Airlines’ flights to Tivat marks a significant shift in the airline’s network, driven by visa-related complications and a strategic focus on its more profitable routes. While this may cause inconvenience for some travelers, particularly those relying on direct access to Montenegro, alternative travel options remain available. The decision highlights the airline’s approach to optimizing its operations, ensuring resources are directed where they are most needed.
For travelers planning to visit Tivat, staying informed about alternative routes and monitoring updates from Turkish Airlines and other carriers will help in adjusting travel plans. As the global aviation market continues to evolve, flexibility and adaptability will be key for passengers navigating changes in route availability.
