British Airways Adds Tivat in Montenegro and Guernsey to Heathrow Short-Haul Routes in 2026, Boosting Tourism in Emerging and Established European Destinations

Published on November 24, 2025

British Airways is adding two new exciting destinations to its growing short-haul network for 2026: Tivat, Montenegro, and Guernsey in the Channel Islands. Announced today, November 24, the expansion is going to further enhance the airline’s Heathrow route map, bringing the total number of short-haul destinations to nearly one hundred.

These new routes have the potential to significantly contribute to tourism growth in both Montenegro and the Channel Islands by offering direct flights from London Heathrow, thereby improving the accessibility of these destinations for leisure travelers and businesspeople alike.

Seasonal Flights to Tivat – A Rising Star on the Adriatic Coast

The seasonal service to Tivat, starting May 14, 2026, will operate three times a week during the summer months, offering easy access to one of the Adriatic’s most sought-after destinations. Tivat, located along Montenegro’s stunning coastline, is quickly becoming a popular destination for nature-driven tourists, luxury travelers, and those seeking unspoiled landscapes and a rich cultural heritage. With its combination of beaches, yacht marinas, historic walled towns like Kotor and Budva, and national parks like Durmitor, Tivat is attracting tourists who are eager to explore the unspoiled beauty of the Adriatic coast.

This new service will likely accelerate Montenegro’s tourism growth, bringing more international visitors and driving up local spending on hospitality, transportation, and activities. In 2024, Montenegro saw 2.6 million tourist arrivals, with more than 96% of overnight guests coming from abroad. The new flights from British Airways will further increase international exposure and provide more convenient access to the region, supporting the ongoing surge in tourism in Montenegro.

Guernsey – A Year-Round Island Destination

In addition to Tivat, Guernsey will be introduced as a year-round destination with daily flights starting on April 19, 2026. Guernsey, known for its rugged coastal paths, hidden coves, and maritime history, will become the only direct link from Heathrow to the Channel Islands, providing leisure tourists and business travelers with increased connectivity to this peaceful island destination. Guernsey offers a unique experience with its historic landmarks, including the Castle Cornet and the Renoir Walk, which blends nature with art. It appeals to visitors looking for a slower pace, with opportunities for water sports, beach walks, and visits to local galleries.

The new direct Heathrow-Guernsey route will not only boost local tourism but also attract more international visitors, particularly those looking for an off-the-beaten-path island getaway. The ease of access to Guernsey will also increase day trip opportunities for travelers in the UK and Europe, making it an attractive destination for weekend breaks and longer stays.

Connecting Options to Further Fuel Tourism in Both Destinations

Both Tivat and Guernsey routes offer excellent connecting opportunities to other European cities and North American destinations. The Heathrow–Guernsey service, in particular, provides seamless connections to over 20 cities across Europe and well-known North American destinations, giving both leisure tourists and business travelers increased flexibility and choice when planning their travels.

The addition of Tivat as a direct destination provides a new opportunity for travelers to explore not just Montenegro, but also the wider Balkan region, boosting tourism in neighboring countries and contributing to regional economic growth. By opening up new routes to these relatively underexplored destinations, British Airways is helping stimulate interest and investments in Montenegro and Guernsey, thereby directly supporting the local tourism industries.

British Airways: Responding to Growing Demand for Short-Haul Travel

Neil Chernoff, Chief Planning and Strategy Officer at British Airways, emphasized that these new routes reflect growing demand for short-haul options that cater to the diverse tastes of modern travelers. He stated, “We’re pleased to be expanding our route map with the addition of two new routes for customers to explore. Montenegro is an ideal choice for those seeking stunning coastlines and year-round sunshine, and the addition of Guernsey is something we know our customers have been eagerly awaiting.”

These new routes align with the growing preference for Mediterranean escapes and island tourism, reflecting how British Airways is responding to evolving traveler needs. The launch of direct flights to Tivat and Guernsey will provide more convenient options for UK-based travelers seeking a Mediterranean vacation or a peaceful island retreat, contributing to the overall growth of island tourism in both the Balkan region and Channel Islands.

Tourism Impact: New Routes Expected to Boost Local Economies and Global Visibility

The new routes will not only increase tourism arrivals but will also generate economic growth for both Tivat and Guernsey. For Tivat, the summer flights will bring more international visitors, boosting demand for local accommodation, tourism services, and creating job opportunities in the hospitality sector. Montenegro’s tourism industry will likely see a direct increase in revenue, with more visitors exploring the country’s rich natural beauty and historical landmarks.

Similarly, Guernsey’s tourism sector will benefit from the direct link to Heathrow, attracting a steady flow of leisure travelers, business visitors, and cultural tourists. As more people discover the island’s unique offerings, there will be a rise in local spending on restaurants, activities, and cultural experiences, further fueling the island’s economic resilience.

For the Philippine tourism sector, these new routes align with broader global trends where tourists are increasingly looking for diverse and off-the-beaten-path destinations. Heathrow’s position as a key international hub ensures that British Airways’ expansion into Tivat and Guernsey will drive cross-border tourism in Europe, helping not just local economies but also elevating these regions on the international travel stage.

British Airways Strengthens its Role in Regional Tourism Growth

As British Airways continues to expand its network of new destinations, such as Tivat and Guernsey, the airline is cementing the future of short-haul tourism by connecting travelers with new, diverse locations which boast unique cultural and natural experiences. These additions not only reflect the growing demand for island tourism and Mediterranean escapes but also represent a wider strategy to open up regions for tourism, driving economic benefits across local communities and expanding the reach of British Airways in the European market. By tapping into growing interest in sustainable, scenic destinations, the airline is making Tivat and Guernsey accessible to a global audience, driving increased tourism and making these destinations key players in the future of regional travel.

Image Source: British Airways