Air Serbia returns to full state control

Serbia increased its stake in Air Serbia to 82% from 51% in 2020 to help it navigate the coronavirus pandemic. The transaction cut Etihad Airways' stake in the airline to 18%.

Air Serbia, once bankrupt, is now a regional leader flying to four continents, setting an example of how a successful airline can contribute to the economic development of a country, Mali said in a video posted by news agency Tanjug.

The government will focus on developing the airline by getting larger planes and adding new flight destinations.

Etihad Airways bought a 49% stake in Serbia's loss-making Jat Airways - later renamed Air Serbia - in 2013.