The aircraft in question has completed a thorough technical and operational examination, involving assessments from expert teams at Air Montenegro, the manufacturer, and EASA-certified maintenance providers.

This was confirmed by the national airline, Air Montenegro, which issued a press release addressing ongoing and unfounded media rumors and assertions by individuals with dubious credibility regarding the acquisition of a third aircraft.

“Air Montenegro wants to clearly state that it will not engage in public debates that do not focus on enhancing air traffic and promoting the national airline, but instead aim to disseminate misinformation and politically charged narratives, which ultimately seek to undermine the company and air traffic in Montenegro by inciting panic.

The airline emphasizes the necessity for improved air connectivity in Montenegro, asserting that expanding their fleet is essential in this regard, a goal they aim to achieve solely through their own resources.

“Every unjustified critique of this process, which neglects factual evidence and verifiable data from accredited institutions, instead seeks to tarnish the company’s reputation regarding the most critical aspect – passenger safety. This is simply an effort to gain personal advantage at the expense of the greater good.

“As the national carrier, we firmly distance ourselves from misleading and inaccurate assertions that, without substantial proof, try to question not only our expertise and dedication to passenger safety but also the evaluations from all relevant international organizations,” stated Air Montenegro.

The national airline affirmed that all operations are conducted in strict adherence to international standards set by entities like EASA (European Union Aviation Safety Agency), IATA (International Air Transport Association), and ICAO (International Civil Aviation Organization).

“Our highest priority is to maintain professional civil aviation standards – not sensationalist claims from unqualified sources. While we work on expanding our fleet and incorporating a third aircraft, we are in the closing stages of discussions with esteemed partners in the global aviation landscape, including aircraft manufacturers, certified maintenance companies, and major European airlines. This collaboration underscores that key stakeholders in the international industry recognize us as a safe and responsible entity. Thus, we will not indulge in political disputes nor will our professionalism be placed in doubt,” the announcement stated.

The response to Montenegrin public and tourism sector demands for enhanced air connectivity is embodied in the strategic fleet expansion.

“Every action in this endeavor is undertaken in full conformity with applicable domestic and international regulations. Every relevant party is involved in the process – from manufacturers and authorized maintenance and audit agencies, to local and international regulatory bodies. The safety of passengers, crew, and the overall operation remains our imperative.

“The aircraft in question has been subject to meticulous technical and operational scrutiny, incorporating analyses from Air Montenegro’s specialists, the manufacturer, and EASA-certified maintenance organizations. Claims regarding ‘invalid documentation’ and ‘threatened safety’ are entirely baseless, unverified, and represent a conspicuous attempt to undermine a professionally significant process for our company,” the airline remarked.

Air Montenegro indicated that the operator, affiliated with the ownership group of the aircraft in question, is prioritized on the EASA carriers list.

“The owner of that enterprise is also the current president of ERA (European Regions Airline Association), elected through a vote from members such as Lufthansa Technik, Lufthansa Systems, TAP, KLM, Airbus, ATR, and other esteemed European entities. These professional credentials and international trust represent a substantial indicator of credibility for us – far more consequential than unwarranted allegations and speculations from individuals lacking professional legitimacy and possessing a questionable ethical and safety profile.”

“In conclusion, the Board of Directors wholeheartedly backs this decision made by the company’s management and sees no room for further discourse,” the statement continued. The national airline warned that if these deemed inappropriate and damaging announcements persist, they would be compelled to take legal action.

“Given all of the above, we believe that the Montenegrin public deserves precise and validated information, not attempts to destabilize a national airline that operates with responsibility, professionalism, and clear developmental objectives. Air Montenegro will, as before, maintain transparency, professionalism, and prioritize the interests of all passengers, Montenegrin citizens, and international partners.

“We call on all public figures, especially in the media, to approach such sensitive topics with professionalism and avoid disseminating misinformation that could have serious implications for public interest,” concluded the statement.

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