Macedonia’s Deputy Prime Minister and Minister of Transport and Communications, Aleksandar Nikoloski, announced that the government is working intensively to initiate long-haul flights from Skopje. The minister stated their ambition to make Skopje the third capital in the Balkans to offer transoceanic flights, adding:
“Currently, Istanbul and Belgrade provide long-distance flights. Our goal is to make Skopje the third city to offer such connections.”
Nikoloski acknowledged that the project is ambitious but highlighted the significant long-term economic and tourism benefits it could bring to Macedonia.
Efforts Continue for Long-Haul Flights
The idea of launching flights from Skopje to destinations like the U.S. and Canada is not new. In 2017, the Macedonian government held discussions on the matter with Turkish Airlines CEO Bilal Ekşi. Both Macedonia and Turkey have Open Skies Agreements with the U.S. and Canada. These agreements allow Turkish carriers to operate long-haul flights under certain conditions. However, initiating flights from Skopje to the U.S. requires inspections by U.S. authorities at the airport.
Airport Operator: Skopje is Ready for Long-Haul Flights
Nejat Kurt, General Manager of TAV Macedonia, stated that the airport has the necessary infrastructure for long-haul flights and that discussions with airlines are ongoing. Kurt commented:
“We have all the tools and equipment required to operate flights to markets like North America. Negotiations are ongoing, and we believe we will achieve a positive outcome to realize this project.”
Top Potential Destinations: New York, Melbourne, and Toronto
New York ranks as the top potential destination for long-haul flights from Skopje. It is followed by Australian cities such as Melbourne and Sydney, while Chicago, Toronto, and Perth also stand out as highly demanded routes.
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