Sarajevo International Airport

Sarajevo International Airport, also known as Butmir, is the main air gateway to Bosnia and Herzegovina and the starting point for exploring the amazing Balkan culture. Landing here is considered one of the most scenic in Europe: the aircraft descends directly over the snow-capped peaks of the Dinaric Alps, flying over dense forests and the red-tiled roofs of houses. Despite its compact size, the airport features modern equipment, a cosy atmosphere, and incredible proximity to the capital's centre, making arrival here as comfortable as possible.

Unique location and compactness. One of the main advantages of the airport is that it is located practically within the city limits. The trip to the historical centre (Baščaršija) takes only about 20–30 minutes, which is a rarity for capital city air hubs. The terminal is designed intuitively: it is difficult to get lost here, and all procedures, from check-in to passport control, usually proceed quite quickly.

Modern infrastructure. Recent modernization and expansion (the opening of the renovated Terminal B) have significantly increased the level of comfort. Travellers have access to spacious waiting lounges, Duty Free shops with local souvenirs and products, as well as a cosy business lounge. Despite the growth in passenger traffic, the airport retains an atmosphere of tranquillity and hospitality.

Living history. Sarajevo Airport holds a special place in the region's history. Directly beneath the runway runs the famous "Tunnel of Hope" (now a museum), which connected the city to the outside world in the 90s. Visiting this museum often becomes the first point in a tourist's programme immediately after landing, as it is located literally a few steps from the airport territory.

For your convenience, we have collected the main contact information for Sarajevo International Airport (SJJ). If you have questions before departure or upon arrival, you can use the following details:

• Official Website: On the airport's official portal www.sarajevo-airport.ba you will find the online board, flight schedule, news, and other useful information.
• Information Desk Phone: For immediate information, you can call: +387 33 289 100.
• Airport Address: Kurta Schorka 36, 71210 Sarajevo, Bosnia and Herzegovina.
• Email: For general inquiries, you can use the address: info@sarajevo-airport.ba.
• Social Media: The airport maintains pages on popular social networks, where it publishes current news and answers passenger questions.
• Lost & Found Information: If your luggage has been lost or damaged, contact the tracing service by phone +387 33 289 235 or by email lost.found@sarajevo-airport.ba.
• Passenger Support Contacts: For most questions related to service at the airport, you can contact the main information desk.

Getting to Sarajevo International Airport (SJJ) from the city centre is quite simple, as it is located just 12 kilometres from the historical centre. The most budget-friendly way is to use public transport. A special Centrotrans shuttle bus connects the airport with the centre of Sarajevo (Baščaršija Square). The trip takes about 30 minutes, and a one-way ticket costs about 5 Convertible Marks (BAM). You can also take trolleybuses No. 103 or No. 107 to the Dobrinja district, from where you can walk to the terminal in 10-15 minutes.

Taxi is the fastest and most convenient option. A trip from the city centre to the airport will take 20-30 minutes depending on traffic conditions and will cost approximately 25-30 BAM. It is recommended to use the services of official taxi companies (for example, Sarajevo Taxi) and ensure the driver turns on the meter. Additionally, you can always book a private transfer in advance, which is especially convenient if you are travelling with large luggage or a group.

If you plan to travel around Bosnia and Herzegovina by car, renting a vehicle is an excellent solution. Most major rental companies have offices both in the city and at the airport itself, allowing you to easily pick up a car in one place and return it in another. For those arriving at the airport in their own vehicle, paid parking is provided. It is located directly in front of the terminal building and offers both short-term and long-term parking.

Thus, the choice of transport depends on your budget and preferences. The bus is an ideal option for economical tourists, a taxi offers speed and comfort, and a rented car provides maximum freedom of movement. Plan your time with a small margin, especially during peak hours, to reach the airport without rushing and complete all necessary pre-flight procedures.

International Airport Sarajevo (SJJ) is a modern and compact aviation hub distinguished by a convenient and intuitive structure. Thanks to its size, navigating it causes no difficulties even for those here for the first time.

The airport consists of one main passenger terminal (Terminal B), which serves all international and domestic flights. The terminal building is well-organized: the arrivals area is located on the ground floor, and the departures area is on the first floor. This simple layout allows passengers to quickly orient themselves and move between key points. Since all operations are concentrated in one building, transfers between terminals are not required — everything is within walking distance.

The Departures Zone includes check-in counters, security screening points, and passport control. After completing formalities, passengers enter a cosy waiting lounge with several boarding gates. Here there are duty-free shops, cafes, and souvenir stalls where you can comfortably spend time before your flight. The Arrivals Zone is just as simple: after disembarking the plane, you proceed to passport control, then to the baggage claim hall, and finally through the customs corridor to the general hall where you can be met. Offices of car rental companies and a tourist information desk are also located here.

Completing all procedures at Sarajevo Airport usually takes less time than in major international hubs. Nevertheless, it is recommended to arrive at the airport at least 2 hours before the departure of an international flight. This time will be sufficient to check in, drop off luggage, and pass security screening without haste, especially during the peak tourist season. Thanks to thoughtful navigation and clear signage, you will easily find everything you need by following signs in Bosnian and English.

The history of International Airport Sarajevo (SJJ) is closely intertwined with key events in the life of the capital of Bosnia and Herzegovina. The airport, located in the suburb of Butmir, was officially opened for civil use on June 2, 1969. Initially, it served primarily domestic flights within Yugoslavia, connecting Sarajevo with Belgrade, Zagreb, and other major cities of the country.

A significant impetus for development was the preparation for the 1984 Winter Olympic Games. To welcome numerous guests and athletes from all over the world, the airport was seriously modernized: the runway was extended by 200 metres, the navigation system was updated, and the passenger terminal was expanded. The successful hosting of the Olympics elevated the airport to an international level and made it an important transport hub in the region.

In the early 1990s, the airport found itself at the centre of tragic events. From April 1992, it was closed to civilian flights and placed under the control of UN forces. During this period, it became a vital centre for the largest humanitarian mission in history — the "Sarajevo Airlift". For almost four years, aircraft delivered food, medicine, and humanitarian aid to the besieged city. Nearby the runway, the famous "Tunnel of Hope" was dug, becoming a symbol of survival and connection to the outside world for the citizens.

After the end of hostilities, the airport was reopened for civil aviation on August 16, 1996. A large-scale reconstruction process began: infrastructure was rebuilt, the terminal was repaired, and modern equipment was installed. Since the early 2000s, the airport has been constantly developing: a new, more spacious Terminal B was built and put into operation, and passenger traffic is growing steadily, setting new records annually. Today, Sarajevo International Airport is a modern and dynamically developing gateway to the country, receiving flights from dozens of airlines from all over Europe and the Middle East.

International Airport Sarajevo (SJJ) is a modern and convenient transport hub offering passengers a full range of services for a comfortable wait for their flight. All conditions have been created here so that your journey begins and ends with pleasant impressions.

In the airport terminal, you will find several cafes and restaurants where you can enjoy a cup of coffee, have a snack, or a full meal, choosing dishes of local or European cuisine. For those planning to shop, a Duty-Free shop operates with a classic assortment of perfumes, cosmetics, tobacco products, beverages, and souvenirs. There are also kiosks with press and travel goods.

Free Wi-Fi is available throughout the airport, allowing you to stay connected, work, or simply pass the waiting time. Special stands are provided for charging gadgets. Passengers who value enhanced comfort can use the services of the business lounge, which offers a secluded atmosphere, snacks, drinks, and a work area.

For financial matters, bank branches, ATMs, and currency exchange points operate at the airport. In case of feeling unwell, passengers can contact the first aid station, which operates around the clock.

Airport Sarajevo cares for all categories of travellers. Mother and child rooms are equipped for families with small children. Passengers with reduced mobility are provided with the necessary assistance and escort, and the terminal infrastructure is fully adapted for their convenience.

Although hotels are not located directly within the airport building, there are numerous hotels for every taste and budget within walking distance and a few minutes' drive. For business travellers, conference room services may be available, allowing for meetings or work in a quiet environment before departure.

International Airport Sarajevo (SJJ) offers passengers several options for a snack or a full lunch, located both in the public area and in the departure zone. Although the selection here is not as large as in major international hubs, you certainly won't go hungry.

The main restaurant and cafe are located in the terminal building. In the public zone (before passport control and screening), a cafe typically operates where you can drink coffee with pastries while saying goodbye to those seeing you off. The main establishments are concentrated in the departure zone, after passing security control. Here you will find a restaurant with a la carte service and several cafe-bars.

regarding cuisine, besides standard international dishes — sandwiches, salads, and pasta — it is worth paying attention to local specialities. In some establishments, you can try the famous Bosnian pie burek with meat or cheese, as well as order traditional Bosnian coffee, served in a dzezva. This is a great opportunity to enjoy the authentic taste of Bosnia and Herzegovina before flying.

Recommendations for choice:

• For a quick snack, cafes offering fresh pastries, sandwiches, and drinks are ideal.
• For a full lunch or dinner, it is better to head to the main restaurant in the departure zone, where you can enjoy a hot meal without haste.

Passengers with special dietary needs (vegetarians, vegans) should study the menu carefully. As a rule, you can always find vegetable salads, fresh fruits, or French fries. Specialized offerings, such as gluten-free or specific halal-certified meals, might be limited within the terminal, so it is better to clarify ingredients with the staff. Prices at the airport are traditionally higher than in the city but remain at a moderate level. Most establishments operate according to the flight schedule, opening early in the morning and closing after the departure of the last plane.

When planning a trip through International Airport Sarajevo, use these tips to make your journey as comfortable as possible and avoid unnecessary stress. This airport is the main air gateway to Bosnia and Herzegovina, and knowing some nuances will help you save time and nerves.

Arrival time at the airport. For international flights, it is recommended to arrive 2.5–3 hours before departure, and for regional flights, 1.5–2 hours will be sufficient. Although the airport in Sarajevo is not as large as global hubs, extra time will allow you to check in, drop off luggage, and pass security control without rushing, especially during the tourist season.

Check-in and Security Control. To save time, complete online check-in for your flight if your airline provides such a service. This will allow you to go straight to the baggage drop-off counter or, if travelling light, to the security checkpoint. When passing security control, remove all metal objects from your pockets, and take laptops and liquids out of your hand luggage in advance.

Seat selection on the plane. If it is possible to choose a seat during check-in, consider your preferences. A window seat will give you breathtaking views of the mountain landscapes during takeoff and landing. An aisle seat is more convenient if you plan to get up during the flight or want more legroom.

Hand luggage rules. Standard international rules apply here too: liquids in containers up to 100 ml must be packed in a single transparent bag. Sharp objects, weapons, and explosive substances are prohibited. Always check the current requirements of your airline, as they may differ slightly.

Passengers with transfers. If you have a connecting flight in Sarajevo, clarify in advance whether your luggage will be automatically transferred to the next flight or if you need to collect and re-register it. Leave enough time between flights, especially if you are flying with different airlines.

Customs Control. When entering or leaving the country, follow the "Green Channel" if you have no goods to declare. If you are carrying something that requires duty payment (for example, goods exceeding the established limit), use the "Red Channel".

Saving Time and Money. Book a transfer from the airport in advance or study the public transport schedule to avoid overpaying for a taxi. A small snack (non-liquid) can be taken with you, as prices at the airport are higher. Currency exchange is also more profitable in the city rather than at the airport.

In case of flight delay. If your flight is delayed, contact an airline representative for current information. Depending on the length of the delay, you may be provided with vouchers for food or drinks. The airport has free Wi-Fi, cafes, and several shops to pass the waiting time.