The state of Serbia is set to acquire the stake in its flag carrier, Air Serbia, currently held by Etihad Airways, allowing the state to retake full ownership of the airline.
The move was described as a “business decision” by the finance minister of Serbia, who mentioned that all necessary paperwork will be completed soon.
With the acquisition, the state aims to further develop Air Serbia, including plans for the procurement of large aircraft and the opening up of new destinations.
Etihad Airways, which bought a 49pc stake in Jat Airways in 2013 and rebranded it as Air Serbia, will sell its remaining 18pc share, ending its co-ownership of the airline.
