Žabljak Airport

The closure was primarily due to a combination of political and economic factors. The breakup of SFR Yugoslavia and the subsequent Yugoslav Wars (1991-2001) completely halted tourism in the region, eliminating the airport's main source of traffic. Following the conflicts, the newly formed state entities lacked the economic resources and passenger demand to justify the significant cost of maintaining and operating a seasonal, low-traffic airport. National air traffic was consolidated to the larger, more viable airports in Podgorica (TGD) and Tivat (TIV).

The airport is completely abandoned and in a state of advanced decay. The runway is still visible but is cracked, weathered, and heavily overgrown with grass and weeds, making it unusable for any aviation purposes. The small terminal building and other structures are derelict, vandalized, and falling into ruin. The site is unfenced and is informally used by locals for various activities, including as a pasture for livestock, a place for driving practice, and occasionally for illegal drag racing. It stands as a relic of a previous era, with no maintenance or security.

Built during the era of the Socialist Federal Republic of Yugoslavia, Žabljak Airport was a key piece of infrastructure designed to promote tourism in the remote but spectacular Durmitor National Park, a UNESCO World Heritage site. Its primary function was to handle seasonal tourist flights, mainly operated by JAT (Yugoslav Airlines). It connected the mountain resort with major cities, most notably Belgrade, significantly reducing travel time and making the area more accessible. The airport primarily served smaller turboprop aircraft, such as the ATR 42. It consisted of a single asphalt runway (approximately 1,650 meters long) and a small, functional terminal building and hangar. It was also used for general aviation and sport aviation activities.

The prospect of reopening or reconstructing Žabljak Airport has been a recurring topic in Montenegrin political and economic discussions for over two decades. Various government officials and investors have periodically announced plans and feasibility studies, citing the potential to boost high-end tourism and improve accessibility to the rapidly developing Žabljak ski resort. The idea is to cater to private jets and smaller charter flights. However, despite these frequent discussions, no concrete, funded project has ever materialized. Major obstacles include the enormous cost of reconstruction, significant environmental concerns due to its proximity to the protected Durmitor National Park, and persistent questions about its long-term economic viability and profitability in a limited seasonal market.