Er Srbija and the Air Traffic Control of Serbia and Montenegro (SMATSA) have reached a significant milestone by welcoming their millionth passenger on December 12, 2025. This historic achievement highlights the growing importance of both the national airline and air traffic control in the domestic and regional aviation sectors.
The milestone was marked by flight JU 331, which arrived from Zurich to Belgrade. Upon entering Serbian airspace, the flight controller congratulated the crew, informing them that they were operating the millionth flight under SMATSA’s jurisdiction for the year. Captain Vesna Aleksić shared the news with passengers, emphasizing the significance of this achievement and its reflection on the airline’s commitment to excellence.
“I am honored to have led the crew on this milestone flight,” said Vesna Aleksić, Captain of Er Srbija. “This operation is not just a number; it symbolizes our dedication and continuous progress. This success demonstrates the trust of our passengers, the hard work of our teams, and Serbia’s growing role in European aviation. As a female captain, I hope to inspire new generations to follow their dreams in aviation.”
Slobodan Kurćubić, Director of the Terminal and Airport Control Sector at SMATSA, also commented on the achievement. “It is a pleasure to be part of a team that records such a historic result. This day is important for SMATSA, Er Srbija, and the broader aviation community. It confirms our capacity to meet the complex demands of our service users,” he stated.
Throughout 2025, Er Srbija has experienced growth across nearly all key business categories. By December 8, the airline had transported over 4.3 million passengers, a 3.2% increase compared to the same period in 2024. The total number of flights rose by 4%, with more than 2.1 million passengers traveling to and from Belgrade. August was the busiest month ever recorded, with 206 round trips and over 21,800 passengers on a single day.
In parallel with the growth in air traffic, SMATSA has established itself as a leader among service providers in the region, ranking among the top ten in Europe. This success stems from a consistent increase in the demand for air traffic control services, ongoing technological upgrades, and enhancements in operational capacity.
During 2025, air traffic in the region saw a 6% increase compared to the previous year, with over 110,000 takeoffs and landings registered at airports in Serbia and Montenegro. Notably, Nikola Tesla Airport experienced over 400 operations in a single day, showcasing the operational strength of the facility.
The achievements of Er Srbija and SMATSA underscore the increasing role of Serbia as an aviation hub. According to official statements, these results contribute to the further development of regional and European aviation, solidifying the nation’s position in the industry.
