Ryanair, Europe's largest low-cost airline, will introduce five new routes from Sarajevo International Airport beginning in April 2025. The new destinations include Girona (Spain), Düsseldorf and Baden-Baden (Germany), Paris (France), and Stockholm (Sweden). A press conference held Thursday marked the announcement, featuring local government officials, airport representatives, and Ryanair executives.

“We are starting 2025 with great enthusiasm. These new routes will connect us to long-anticipated destinations,” said Sanin Ramezic, acting director of Sarajevo International Airport. He highlighted the continued success of the partnership with Ryanair, adding that expanding routes is a strategic goal for Bosnia and Herzegovina.

From the summer schedule onward, Sarajevo will be linked to 11 key destinations via Ryanair. While flights to the five newly announced cities will commence in April, six other routes have already been established.

Sarajevo Canton Premier Nihad Uk noted the significant growth in air traffic and tourism, stating, “The airport recorded a record number of passengers, and we are seeing a 25% monthly increase in tourists compared to previous years.”

Economic Development Minister Zlatko Mijatovic emphasized the economic benefits of subsidizing new flight routes. “Ryanair’s presence is a symbol of economic development and stability. Our analyses show that every euro invested in airline subsidies returns up to 15 times the value. In 2024, passenger traffic increased by over 34% compared to 2023. We expect stronger support from FBiH and state authorities to ensure the continued growth of such projects, not only in Sarajevo but across the country,” said Mijatovic.

Jason McGuinness, Ryanair’s Commercial Director, expressed optimism about the airline’s future in Sarajevo. “There was scepticism about Ryanair’s arrival in Sarajevo, but the past year has proven its success. Tourists want to visit Sarajevo. It’s one of the most beautiful cities in Europe,” McGuinness said.

Ryanair, which operates in over 40 countries and carried more than 200 million passengers in 2024, aims to establish a base in Sarajevo. However, McGuinness emphasized that eliminating airport fees is crucial for this plan.

He urged authorities in Bosnia and Herzegovina to reconsider the decision to reinstate airport fees, which are scheduled to take effect in April. “Removing these fees is essential for further growth and success,” McGuinness concluded.