Air Serbia History
Air Serbia, with IATA code JU, is the national flag carrier of Serbia. The airline has a rich history that dates back to the early days of aviation in the region.
The origins of Air Serbia can be traced back to 1927 when the first Serbian national airline, Aeroput, was established. Aeroput operated as a state-owned airline and played a crucial role in connecting Serbia with the rest of Europe and the world. Over the years, Aeroput expanded its route network and became a symbol of Serbian aviation excellence.
Following the dissolution of Yugoslavia in the 1990s, Aeroput went through a series of transformations and rebranding. In 2003, the airline was rebranded as Jat Airways, which became the national carrier of Serbia. Under the Jat Airways brand, the airline continued to serve as a vital link between Serbia and the rest of the world.
More Airline Insights & Tips
Here are a few of helpful resources & tips that can further enhance your knowledge of Air Serbia airlines and how to best be prepared for your trip:
- Delays are an unfortunate fact of the life of an air traveler. Arm yourself against surprises by knowing the flight status of your JU Air Serbia flight before heading to the airport, as this could save you a lot of time, or even your trip to the airport if your flight is canceled.
- Info can be found here on Air Serbia’s company structure, headquarters, etc.
- See which partnerships and alliances Air Serbia has here. This is useful if you want to build up your frequent flyer points on partner airlines.
- Want to know which plane types are in service? Check out JU’s fleet list here.
- When considering a flight booking on Air Serbia, be aware that third-party travel sites might require you to use their customer service instead of Air Serbia's, which may be less than ideal in certain situations.
Beyond the history presented here for Air Serbia, if you’re wanting more aviation history, read about the history of commercial flight here, or the history of the airline industry here.
In 2013, a significant milestone in the history of the airline occurred when Etihad Airways, the national carrier of the United Arab Emirates, acquired a 49% stake in Jat Airways. This partnership led to the rebranding of the airline as Air Serbia, marking a new era for Serbian aviation.
Since its rebranding, Air Serbia has undergone extensive modernization and expansion. The airline has introduced a new fleet of aircraft, including Airbus A319 and A320, to enhance its operational efficiency and passenger comfort. Air Serbia has also expanded its route network, adding new destinations across Europe, the Middle East, and North America.
Today, Air Serbia is recognized as a leading airline in the region, offering a wide range of services to both domestic and international passengers. The airline prides itself on its warm Serbian hospitality, excellent customer service, and commitment to safety.
For more information about this airline, check out our comprehensive Air Serbia Guide.
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