Er Srbija and the Serbia and Montenegro Air Traffic Services Agency (SMATSA) celebrated a significant milestone on December 12, 2025, as they recorded the one millionth passenger in a single year. This achievement marks a historic moment for both the national airline and the regional aviation sector, showcasing their essential roles in the growth of air travel in Serbia.
The milestone was reached with flight JU 331, which flew from Zurich to Belgrade. Upon entering Serbian airspace, the air traffic controller congratulated the crew, informing them that they were operating the millionth aircraft serviced by SMATSA in 2025. The captain, Vesna Aleksić, shared this achievement with the passengers, inviting them to partake in the celebration of this remarkable record.
“I am honored to lead the crew on the millionth flight in 2025. This operation is not just a number; it symbolizes our dedication and continuous progress,” Aleksić stated. “This success reflects passenger trust, the efforts of our teams, and Serbia’s growing presence in European air traffic. As a female captain, I hope to inspire new generations to pursue their dreams, demonstrating that a successful aviation career can be built in Serbia.”
The achievement is not only significant for Er Srbija but also for SMATSA, as Slobodan Kurćubić, the Director of the Terminal and Airport Flight Control Sector, emphasized the importance of this day for the wider aviation community. “It is a pleasure to be part of a team that records such a historic achievement. This day confirms our capacity to meet complex demands and the needs of our service users,” he said.
In 2025, Er Srbija experienced growth across nearly all key business categories. By December 8, the airline had transported over 4.3 million passengers, reflecting a 3.2% increase compared to the same period in 2024. The overall number of flights increased by 4%, with more than 2.1 million passengers traveling to and from Belgrade. August emerged as the busiest month in the airline’s history, with August 1 setting a record with 206 return flights and over 21,800 passengers in a single day.
As air traffic continues to grow, SMATSA has proven itself as a leader among service providers in the region, ranking among the top ten providers in Europe. The increase in air traffic services is attributed to a consistent rise in demand, ongoing technological advancements, and increased operational capacities. In 2025, traffic in their airspace rose by 6% compared to the previous year, with over 110,000 takeoffs and landings recorded at airports in Serbia and Montenegro. The Nikola Tesla Airport handled over 400 operations in a single day, along with more than 4,100 flights daily during peak seasons.
The joint achievements of Er Srbija and SMATSA reflect Serbia’s increasing role as an aviation hub and contribute to the continued development of regional and European aviation. As both organizations move forward, the focus remains on enhancing services and meeting the evolving needs of air travel in the region.
