Tivat Joins Montenegro and Guernsey as British Airways Confirms New 2026 Connections—Setting the Stage for a Major Surge in European Coastal Tourism

Published on December 1, 2025

British Airways is set to expand its European footprint in 2026 with new flights from London Heathrow to Tivat in Montenegro and Guernsey in the Channel Islands, strengthening access to two high-demand coastal destinations. The routes, operating from Heathrow Terminals 3 and 5, will support increased leisure and business travel options for the UK and international markets.

New Seasonal Summer Flights Link Heathrow to Tivat, Montenegro

Starting 14 May 2026, British Airways will introduce a seasonal service connecting London Heathrow Terminal 3 with Tivat, operating three times per week during the summer period. Tivat serves as a leading arrival point for Montenegro’s Adriatic coastline, giving travellers direct access to the country’s coastal cities, national parks and UNESCO-recognised heritage landscapes.

According to official data published by the Statistical Office of Montenegro (MONSTAT), the country recorded 2.6 million tourist arrivals in 2024, generating 15.6 million overnight stays. More than 96% of overnight visitors were international, demonstrating Montenegro’s accelerating position in Europe’s inbound tourism market.

Tivat’s strategic location offers gateways to prominent destinations including the Bay of Kotor, Budva’s historic citadel, and Durmitor National Park. The summer route supports the increasing demand for travel to Montenegro during its peak season, aligning with the country’s government-led tourism strategy focused on sustainable coastal and inland development.

Year-Round Heathrow Connectivity Introduced for Guernsey

From 19 April 2026, British Airways will launch a daily, year-round service between London Heathrow Terminal 5 and Guernsey, becoming the only direct route linking Heathrow with the island. The connection is positioned to enhance air access for leisure travellers, business visitors, and passengers transferring through Heathrow’s extensive international network.

Guernsey, part of the Bailiwick of Guernsey and governed under its own administrative framework, is known for its protected natural coastline, maritime heritage and rich cultural assets. As highlighted by VisitGuernsey, the official tourism authority, the island features 28 miles of cliff paths, a rugged shoreline, and heritage attractions including Castle Cornet and historic fortifications that showcase centuries of island history.

The new Heathrow route enables travellers to access Guernsey’s year-round tourism offering, which spans walking routes, coastal recreation, cultural sites and seasonal outdoor activities. The permanent schedule also supports Guernsey’s visitor economy and strengthens its linkage with Europe and North America through onward connections.

Enhanced Premium Travel Options Across Both Routes

Travellers flying to Tivat and Guernsey will have access to the airline’s short-haul premium cabin, providing lounge access at Heathrow, expanded seating space, onboard dining and enhanced baggage allowances. These options are designed to support passenger comfort for both leisure itineraries and international connections.

The expansion of premium and standard cabin choices aligns with growing travel demand across Europe’s coastal destinations, allowing passengers greater flexibility during peak and off-peak travel periods.

Coastal Demand and Sustainable Tourism Trends Support Route Growth

Both Montenegro and Guernsey continue to experience strong tourism development supported by official government data and long-term destination strategies.

Montenegro’s rising international arrival numbers reflect interest in its Adriatic beaches, mountainous regions and historic towns. The country has prioritised sustainable growth through national tourism frameworks, supporting the expansion of its air connectivity and infrastructure.

In the Channel Islands, Guernsey’s tourism sector has focused on heritage conservation, environmental protection and cultural preservation. Government agencies promote responsible coastal tourism, ensuring that natural landscapes, cliff paths and historic zones remain key components of the island’s year-round travel experience.

The addition of new flights from Heathrow supports these tourism goals by improving regulated access and encouraging sustainable visitor flows.

A Strategic Strengthening of Heathrow’s European Network

The introduction of the 2026 services to Tivat and Guernsey represents a strategic step in British Airways’ short-haul network development. These routes expand Heathrow’s connectivity to high-value tourism destinations while supporting the travel demand of UK residents, European travellers and intercontinental passengers.

With official tourism bodies reporting consistent growth for both Montenegro and Guernsey, the new services offer increased flexibility, direct access to emerging and established travel locations, and seamless onward international connections through one of the world’s busiest global hubs.