Kazakhstan’s SCAT Airlines is exploring plans to launch fifth freedom flights between Belgrade and Morocco, marking a potential milestone for connectivity between Southeast Europe and North Africa.
Speaking to EX-YU Aviation News, Vladimir Denisov, President of SCAT Airlines, confirmed that the carrier is in talks with Serbia’s Civil Aviation Directorate to secure the necessary traffic rights. Fifth freedom flights allow an airline to carry passengers between two foreign countries as part of a route that either starts or ends in its home nation.
The proposed service would build on SCAT’s newly launched Astana–Belgrade route and support the airline’s broader ambition to expand operations into North Africa. Denisov explained that Morocco’s distance from Kazakhstan makes an intermediate stop necessary — and Belgrade offers a strategic and convenient hub for connecting traffic.
Aviation authorities from Serbia and Kazakhstan met earlier this week to discuss the potential agreement, with another round of talks planned later this year. If approved, flights could begin as early as 2026. The discussions also included Air Serbia CEO Jiri Marek, reflecting growing cooperation between the two carriers. SCAT passengers can already book onward journeys with Air Serbia, and Denisov anticipates an even 50-50 split in traffic between Serbian and Kazakh travelers on the Astana–Belgrade route.
For Belgrade Nikola Tesla Airport, the development aligns with long-standing ambitions to establish air connectivity with Morocco. The Moroccan National Tourism Office recently reaffirmed efforts to enhance links between the two countries, including potential charter operations and the launch of direct flights.
“The Moroccan National Tourism Office is collaborating with Serbian tour operators to promote Moroccan destinations and enhance air connectivity,” said Adel El Fakir, the office’s director. “Our focus is on establishing nonstop flights between Serbia and Morocco to attract more tourists.”
If finalized, the new route would represent the first-ever scheduled air link between Serbia and Morocco, opening the door to greater tourism, trade, and cultural exchange between the two regions.
