Serbia’s President, Aleksandar Vučić, has said the country’s national carrier will begin flights between Belgrade and Tokyo Narita Airport within the next six months as one of three new routes of strategic importance set to launch in the coming period. The comments were made during the Serbia – Japan Business Forum, attended by over 100 Japanese companies in Belgrade. The Japanese business delegation arrived on a nonstop Air Serbia chartered flight from Tokyo earlier this week. Speaking at the conference, Mr Vućić said, “I have discussed this matter with [Minister for Finance] Siniša Mali. There are three new routes we will need to launch in the next six months. One of those three direct routes is Tokyo”.
The President added, “According to the business plan, it is the least popular route among Air Serbia’s management, but we will be of help in order for them to change their opinion on this because, business-wise, they have done a good job, and they have certain reservations but connecting us with Japan is of outmost importance for our country. We will give our all for this route to commence in the next six months. If Japanese airport authorities can be of help with some small incentives, we would be very grateful”.
Air Serbia previously announced that after completing its expansion in China, set to conclude with the launch of its new Shanghai service on January 11, 2025, the airline will shift its focus to North America for its third destination on the continent. The carrier has also said it would consider flights to Tokyo and Seoul in the future, though it emphasised that further expansion into the Far East remains a part of its long-term strategy. On the other hand, President Vučić has hinted at potential new Air Serbia routes on several occasions, though only some of these have materialised so far.
Air Serbia yesterday operated a charter flight to Tokyo, returning the Japanese business delegation to their home country. This flight marked the inaugural service of the airline’s latest Airbus A330-200, registered YU-ARD. The aircraft, delivered two weeks ago, was initially set to enter service last weekend. Following a small delay, it has now completed its first flight for Air Serbia, successfully operating the journey to the Japanese capital.
