Skopje, 19 February 2026 (MIA) – Since the government assumed office, 23 new direct flights have been introduced, with 3.5 million passengers served at Ohrid and Skopje airports. This year, I expect that Skopje Airport will emerge as the regional leader in growth, surpassing 4 million passengers, said Deputy Prime Minister and Minister of Transport Aleksandar Nikoloski, commenting on government policies in air transport.

According to the Ministry of Transport, he noted that the government has launched a strategy to attract new airlines, adding that as Macedonia is landlocked, its airports serve as the only entry point for tourists and business travellers, while also providing more travel opportunities for Macedonian citizens.

“What I’m proud of is that since our government took office, we have launched 23 new direct flight routes, most recently to Alghero, Sardinia, and Palermo, Sicily. I’m also pleased that 3.5 million passengers have passed through Ohrid and Skopje airports. Considering Macedonia’s population is only 1.8 million, this number is far above the total population. Skopje Airport is expected to be the regional growth leader this year, which is particularly noteworthy given that Zagreb, Sarajevo, and Belgrade are larger cities,” Nikoloski said.

He noted that direct negotiations with Saudi Arabia have commenced to establish air services between the two countries, which will further expand Macedonia’s flight network.

“I expect that direct flights to Skopje and from Ohrid airports will be introduced, and we will continue our policy of promoting airline routes. This year, we anticipate exceeding 4 million passengers, which will be an absolute record,” Deputy Prime Minister Aleksandar Nikoloski stated.

Photo: Ministry of Transport