The Minister of Construction, Transport and Infrastructure, Goran Vesić, emphasized the urgent need to resolve ongoing software issues at “Nikola Tesla” Airport, which have been causing flight check-in delays. Vesić stressed that “Vinci”, the airport’s concessionaire, must take these problems seriously and ensure the system’s reliability in such situations.
“If it weren’t for the software problems, we could say that this year’s situation at Belgrade Airport, compared to last year when there were issues with luggage, has been relatively smooth, especially during the peak travel period from July 15 to August 15,” Vesić stated in an interview with TV Prva.
He noted that the ground handling market was liberalized last summer in line with the concession agreement, allowing the British company “Menzies” to manage luggage operations, which has led to a significant reduction in luggage-related problems this year.
“We have repeatedly demanded explanations from ‘Vinci,’ including after the most recent system failure. It is unacceptable for this to happen; they are required to have a backup system that functions when the main system fails,” Vesić insisted.
He emphasized that “Vinci” must meet its obligations under the concession contract and ensure the smooth operation of air traffic. Vesić clarified that the recent issues were not due to an increased number of flights, as Air Serbia has only introduced one new route to Mostar this year.
Vesić reiterated that Serbia will insist on “Vinci” fulfilling its contractual obligations, ensuring passengers can board their flights on time. He also announced a meeting with “Vinci” management next week, where the expectations will be clearly communicated.
“Last year, we addressed the issue by introducing competition in ground handling operations. Serbia will not tolerate its passengers being treated differently from passengers anywhere else in the world. The company must improve its performance and adhere to the contract. One of my concerns is why the Serbian language signs at the airport are not in Cyrillic,” Vesić concluded.
