Belgrade Nikola Tesla Airport (BEG) – Serbia’s Premier International Gateway and Strategic Hub for Southeast Europe
Belgrade Nikola Tesla International Airport (BEG/LYBE) is not just Serbia’s busiest and largest air transport facility; it is a vital, rapidly expanding hub strategically connecting the Balkans and Southeast Europe to a vast global network. Located approximately 18 km west of the vibrant capital, Belgrade, the airport serves as the principal hub for the national carrier, Air Serbia, and a key base for major low-cost airlines like Wizz Air. It stands as the ideal entry point for international travelers looking to explore Belgrade’s rich history, from the historic Kalemegdan Fortress to the bohemian quarter of Skadarlija.
Operational Excellence and General Airport Information
Under the management of Vinci Airports since 2018, BEG has committed to a sweeping, multi-year modernization program aimed at transforming it into a top-tier European airport, focusing on efficiency and passenger comfort.
- Official Name & Code: Belgrade Nikola Tesla International Airport (BEG / LYBE). It is proudly named in honor of the globally renowned Serbian-American inventor, Nikola Tesla.
- Location: Surčin, situated 18 km west of the Belgrade city center.
- Traffic & Growth: Demonstrating robust post-pandemic expansion, BEG successfully handled over 8.36 million passengers in 2024. Following a strong performance in Q1 2025 (surpassing 1.6 million passengers), the airport is actively targeting a monumental annual capacity of 15 million passengers by the conclusion of the concession period, cementing its role as a powerful regional player.
- Network: The airport’s dynamic route map now spans 116 destinations across more than 30 countries, ensuring extensive connectivity.
Terminal Modernization, Capacity Expansion, and EXPO 2027 Readiness
The airport’s infrastructure has undergone a comprehensive overhaul, significantly boosting capacity and passenger experience, especially in preparation for the global showcase, EXPO 2027, which will further drive international traffic.
- Terminal Infrastructure: The expanded terminal complex now encompasses a total area of 93,651 square meters. The facility strategically divides traffic, with the primary Terminal 2 handling the majority of international traffic and Terminal 1 dedicated to low-cost and charter operations.
- Key Infrastructure Upgrades: Crucial infrastructure projects include the first complete reconstruction of the main runway in 60 years. To dramatically improve runway efficiency and reduce taxiing times, four new Rapid Exit Taxiways (RETs) and four new connecting taxiways have been successfully implemented.
- Streamlined Passenger Flow: Passenger processing is now optimized through new centralized security control areas and a modern, open-space design for boarding gates. The terminal features 90 check-in counters and 29 new passport control counters. The upcoming implementation of 16 passport eGates is expected to significantly expedite border crossing procedures for eligible travelers.
- Future Expansion (C Pier): To accommodate projected long-term demand, immediate plans are in place to add three new gates (C15–C17) and four additional aircraft parking stands along the C pier.
- Amenities: Passengers benefit from 60 minutes of complimentary high-speed Wi-Fi, extensive duty-free shopping, and diverse dining options, including the Bistro which offers a blend of authentic Serbian and popular international cuisine. Multiple airport lounges, including the VIP, Air Serbia Premium, and Business Lounge, cater to premium travelers.
Airline Partnerships and Dynamic 2025/2026 Route Network
BEG’s strong partnerships with major global and European carriers drive its status as a key European hub, with the 2025/2026 winter season anticipating a robust 17.7% increase in seat capacity across its network.
- Dominant Carriers: The airport’s network is anchored by Air Serbia, which remains the largest carrier with over 451 weekly departures, alongside significant operations from Wizz Air, Lufthansa, Turkish Airlines, and easyJet.
- High-Demand Routes: Frequency leaders include flights to major European and Asian capitals, with Vienna and Istanbul currently holding the top spots. Turkish Airlines, for instance, offers three daily services to Istanbul.
- Strategic Long-Haul Connections: BEG has expanded its crucial connectivity to Asia. The longest scheduled routes include service to Guangzhou (operated by Hainan Airlines or China Southern Airlines), and the strategic new direct service launched by Air Serbia to Shanghai, opening up vast commercial and tourism opportunities.
- Notable New and Resumed Routes (Winter 2025 / Summer 2026):
- easyJet commenced direct flights connecting Belgrade to Paris Charles de Gaulle in October 2025.
- Wizz Air significantly expanded its network with a new service to Madrid starting in October 2025.
- SCAT Airlines introduced a new connection to Astana in November 2025.
- Royal Jordanian is slated to resume its strategic service to Amman in April 2026.
- airBaltic is scheduled to resume flights to Riga in May 2026.
Transportation, Parking, and Contact Information
Ground Transportation: Seamless Connectivity to Belgrade
Travelers have several efficient options for reaching the city center:
- Bus: The Minibus A1 offers the fastest public transport route directly to Slavija Square in Belgrade. The journey takes approximately 30 minutes, with a fixed fare of 300 RSD.
- Taxi: To ensure transparency and prevent unlicensed drivers, taxis operate on a fixed-fare system categorized into six zones (14–60 EUR). Passengers must obtain an official automated receipt from the dedicated taxi desk in the baggage claim area before boarding.
- Car Rental: All major international car rental agencies, including Avis, Europcar, Sixt, and Hertz, maintain desks at the airport. Pre-booking online is highly recommended for the best rates and availability.
- Future Rail Link: A critical infrastructure project is underway: a new Belgrade railway line is planned for completion by 2026, which will connect BEG directly to the National Stadium and the EXPO complex, significantly improving airport access.
Parking Facilities
The modernization program has successfully addressed parking capacity, doubling the available space to meet passenger demand.
- Capacity: The car park capacity has been significantly increased to accommodate the rising passenger volume, offering over 3,000 spaces.
- Pricing: Competitive parking rates are offered, starting from 300 RSD per day.
Official Contact Information
For real-time flight information and official inquiries:
- Official Website (Flight Info): www.beg.aero
- Address: JP Aerodrom “Beograd”, 11180 Belgrade 59, Serbia
- General & Lost and Found Telephone: +381 (0)11 209-4444
- Owner/Operator: Vinci Airports (BEG)