Podgorica Airport (TGD/LYPG) – Your Essential Guide to Montenegro’s Main Gateway
Podgorica Airport, internationally recognized by its IATA code TGD and ICAO code LYPG, is not just an airport—it is the primary aerial gateway to Montenegro, connecting the country’s vibrant capital and its breathtaking natural wonders with the rest of Europe. Officially known as Aerodrom Podgorica, it is also often referred to by its former local name, Golubovci Airport. It proudly serves as the operational base for Montenegro’s national carrier, Air Montenegro.
General Information, Location, and Key Facts
Strategically positioned just 11 km (7 miles) south of the bustling Podgorica city center, TGD offers convenient access for both business and leisure travelers. Its location on the Zeta Plain places it in close proximity to major Montenegrin landmarks, including the stunning Lake Skadar National Park and the iconic Millennium Bridge.
| Detail | Value |
| IATA Code | TGD |
| ICAO Code | LYPG |
| Location | 11 km South of Podgorica City Center |
| Operating Currency | Euro (EUR) |
| Coordinates | 42° 21′ 29” N, 19° 15′ 6” E |
| Official Website | www.airports.me |
Traveler Note: Montenegro offers visa-free entry for citizens of many countries, including Turkey, for stays up to 90 days, making TGD an easy entry point.
Terminal Facilities and Passenger Services
Podgorica Airport operates a single, modern terminal building, which has undergone significant renovations, notably in 2006, and operational upgrades, such as the increase in check-in counters in 2023, to handle growing passenger volumes efficiently.
| Service Type | Details |
| Connectivity | Free, high-speed Wi-Fi is available throughout the terminal under the network name “Podgorica Airport Wi-Fi”. |
| Dining & Retail | Passengers can enjoy refreshments and meals at the Airport Cafe restaurant and utilize the Duty-Free Shopping area for tax-exempt purchases. |
| Baggage Services | Baggage Wrapping services are available to secure luggage, typically priced at approximately 5 EUR. |
| VIP Lounge Access | A dedicated VIP Lounge offers a premium waiting experience for a fee, currently priced at around 25 EUR for a two-hour stay. |
| Accessibility | The terminal is fully equipped with facilities and assistance services to ensure a comfortable journey for Passengers with Reduced Mobility (PRM). |
| Lost & Found | For inquiries regarding lost property, contact the dedicated service line: +382 20 444 230. |
Ground Transportation: Getting To and From TGD
Connecting to Podgorica city center, Bar, and other destinations from TGD is straightforward, with several affordable and reliable transport options available:
| Transportation Mode | Approx. Price | Travel Time to City Center | Notes for Travelers |
| Taxi | 12–15 EUR | 15–20 minutes | It is highly recommended to use licensed services like Meridian Taxi (call: +382 19700) for set rates. |
| Public Bus (Line L-20) | 1 EUR | ~30 minutes | Services are provided by operators like BTC Zeta and MS Tours, operating between approximately 07:00 and 21:00. |
| Train | 1 EUR | ~7 minutes | Requires a 10-minute walk from the terminal to the nearby Aerodrom Station. Operates from 06:00 to 21:30. |
| Car Rental | Starts from 40 EUR daily | N/A | Major international and local companies are represented, including Sixt, Avis, Hertz, Rokšped, and Kompas, offering maximum flexibility for exploring Montenegro. |
| Shared Taxi (Dolmuş) | 3–5 EUR | N/A | This cost-effective option for shared rides to Podgorica center and Bar is expected to be operational starting from 2025. |
Airlines, Routes, and Major Expansion News
TGD is served by a diverse mix of legacy carriers and budget airlines, reflecting its increasing importance as a regional hub. Key airlines include: Air Montenegro, Turkish Airlines, Air Serbia, Wizz Air, Ryanair, LOT Polish Airlines, Austrian Airlines, and ITA Airways.
The airport’s network in 2025 is robust, spanning approximately 30 destinations across 20 countries, with top routes connecting to major cities like Istanbul, Belgrade, Vienna, Abu Dhabi, Rome, and London.
Wizz Air Base Launch: A Game Changer
In a monumental development for the airport’s growth, Wizz Air announced in October 2025 its plan to establish a new operational base at Podgorica Airport. This strategic move involves basing two brand-new Airbus A321neo aircraft at TGD, which is projected to add over 1 million new seats annually to the airport’s capacity.
New Wizz Air Destinations (Launching late March/June 2026):
- Barcelona (BCN)
- Basel (BSL)
- Beauvais (BVA)
- Baden Baden (FKB)
- Cologne (CGN)
- Gdansk (GDN)
- Hamburg (HAM)
- Ljubljana (LJU)
- Maastricht (MST)
- Malmo (MMX)
- Poznan (POZ)
- Rome Fiumicino (FCO)
- Rzeszow (RZE)
- Vilnius (VNO)
- Wrocław (WRO)
Passenger Statistics and Future Outlook
Podgorica Airport has seen impressive growth, demonstrating its critical role in Montenegro’s tourism and economic development. The airport previously won the prestigious “Best Airport under 1 million passengers” award in 2007.
- Record Year (2024): TGD set a new record, handling 1,757,522 passengers in 2024, marking a solid 6% increase compared to 2023.
- 2025 Performance: In the first eight months of 2025 (January–August), the airport processed 1,217,097 travelers. Despite this strong showing, the first quarter of 2025 saw a minor 4.9% decline in traffic, partly due to temporary capacity reductions by some carriers like Ryanair.