Air Serbia's trip from Oslo to Budapest via Belgrade had its highs and lows, and here's my take on it. While the flight itself was mostly uneventful, there are areas where the airline could significantly improve its service. The complimentary snacks and water are a nice touch, especially compared to some of their European competitors, but the overall service left something to be desired.
The first flight was punctual, the cabin was clean, and the legroom was adequate. The inflight magazine was a welcome addition, but the crew's performance was underwhelming. They seemed friendly but lacked attentiveness and a service-oriented mindset. I had to wait for a response when trying to purchase from the BoB menu, which was a minor inconvenience. The strict no-photography policy is also a bit odd, especially given the lack of in-flight entertainment or amenities like WiFi and charging ports.
The transfer at Belgrade airport was smooth, thanks to the airport's compact size and efficient layout. However, the delay on the BEG-BUD flight was a letdown, and the crew's lack of communication or apology didn't help matters. While it was a minor delay, it still impacted the overall experience.
Air Serbia has the potential to be a great airline, but it needs to focus on improving crew training and customer service. The current state of affairs is a missed opportunity, especially given the competition in the European market. It's a shame, as the airline has the infrastructure and resources to excel, but it's not quite there yet.
In my opinion, Air Serbia should consider investing more in its crew's training and customer service, especially in areas like attentiveness and communication. The airline's strict policies on photography and videography also need to be re-evaluated, as they seem out of touch with modern expectations. With a few key improvements, Air Serbia could become a top choice for travelers in the region.