“A Runway Ready for Fresh Takeoffs”
Scene from the airport, Photo: Jadranka Ćetković
The Berane airport celebrated the 90th anniversary of the local Aero Club, once a hallmark of aviation in this region of Montenegro. The gathering saw pilots, aviation fans, and those who experienced their first flights here over thirty years ago.
Among those present was Vladimir Andrijašević from the Nikšić Aero Club, who flew on the Berane runway as a cadet of the Aviation High School back in 1987. Returning years later as a sports pilot, he took part in the anniversary festivities.
“Berane and its aviation club remain vivid in the memories of the former Yugoslavia. Sadly, it has faded here, but I see new, young talents eager to revive it, and I wish them success. Both our club in Nikšić and I will help in any way we can,” Andrijašević expressed.
Despite operating under more humble circumstances today, the Berane Aero Club continues to have a dedicated core of enthusiasts who hope to restore its past glory. Mladen Došljak, one of the club’s revival advocates, is among them.
“Currently, the club is functioning at a reduced capacity, but we are making efforts to bring it back to life. Our goal is to attract as many young individuals as possible and regain the club’s former prestige,” Došljak stated.
A notable guest at the celebration was Boris Kozuh from the Aero Club Slovenia, who has been a pilot for 62 years. This was his second visit to Berane, and he was once again charmed by the beauty of the Bjelasica region.
“These are clouds that allow warm air to rise. When a glider floats below such a cloud, it gets lifted and can remain airborne for hours, allowing for flights covering hundreds of kilometers from one cloud to another. That’s why this place is so magical,” Kozuh remarked.
However, despite the enthusiasm and potential, the Berane runway has awaited renovations for years. Recent confirmations indicate that the proposal made by German investor Mike Steinmüller, who is interested in developing an airport, has not been accepted by the Municipality of Berane.
According to President Đole Lutovac, the study failed to clarify key components such as expropriation expenses, environmental impacts, and financing strategies. Steinmüller subsequently urged all stakeholders to convene and collaboratively initiate the project.
While ordinary citizens may not have the opportunity to fly, Miloš Vučević, president of the Serbian Progressive Party, arrived at Berane airport via helicopter from the Serbian Ministry of the Interior to attend the consecration of the Church of Saint Sava in Dapsići.
News