Montenegro Airlines (Podgorica) has once again found itself in trouble with the government, with the Central Bank blocking its account over a EUR2.2 million (USD2.5 million) debt, reports SeeBiz. The problematic airline also tops the Tax Authority's list of debtors, owing more than EUR16 million (USD18.7 million) to the state.
Montenegro's Central Bank (CBCG) previously blocked the carrier's account in January and July, but these were withdrawn after negotiations with the government. This time around, the block has been in place since September 10. Once again, it relates to outstanding payments owed to the Flight Control of Serbia and Montenegro (SMATSA), the two countries' air navigation service provider.
Despite repeated attempts to offload the airline, the Montenegrin government is still the majority owner. Previously, Branko Vujovic, of the Montenegrin privatisation council, has expressed reluctance at allowing the airline to go bankrupt, saying it is an important connection to the rest of Europe.
The state-owned Montenegro Airlines operates a fleet of three E195s (one inactive) and two Fokker 100s on scheduled flights to fourteen destinations in Serbia, Italy, Denmark, Germany, Slovenia, France, Russia, Austria, Switzerland and the United Kingdom.
