Record start to 2026 for Croatia Airlines as passenger numbers jump 20%

(Photo: Šime Lugarov)

ZAGREB, 2 June 2026 – Croatia Airlines transported 775,000 passengers between January and May 2026, representing a 20 per cent increase compared with the same period last year and marking the strongest result ever recorded by the Croatian national carrier for the first five months of a year.

The airline carried approximately 130,000 more passengers than during the corresponding period in 2025, continuing a strong growth trend that has been evident since the beginning of the year.

Passenger numbers increased in every month from January to May. Traffic rose by 24 per cent in January, 21 per cent in February, 24 per cent in March, 21 per cent in April and 16 per cent in May compared with the same months in 2025.

A particularly notable result was achieved in April, when Croatia Airlines recorded growth despite declines in passenger traffic at Croatia’s two largest airports. During that month, Zagreb Airport reported a one per cent decrease in traffic, while Split Airport recorded a three per cent decline.

The figures underline the airline’s role in connecting Croatia with destinations across Europe and supporting the country’s aviation sector, tourism industry and wider economy.

The growth has been achieved while Croatia Airlines continues the largest project in its history – the renewal of its fleet with new Airbus A220 aircraft. The investment is aimed at improving long-term operational efficiency, enhancing service quality and supporting more sustainable business development.

At the same time, the airline is operating in a challenging global environment. The ongoing conflict in the Middle East has contributed to higher jet fuel prices, increasing pressure on airlines worldwide. Fuel remains one of the largest operating costs in the aviation industry, and recent market disruptions have led to significant price increases.

Croatia Airlines said it is continuing with its fleet renewal programme while adapting operational and commercial activities to mitigate the impact of rising costs and market volatility.

The company noted that geopolitical developments and instability in energy markets are also affecting the availability and prices of aircraft spare parts, with growing demand from the defence sector adding further pressure on supply chains.

To address these challenges, the airline has implemented crisis management measures focused on optimising operations, carefully managing costs and revenues, and maintaining the stability of its flight network.

Croatia Airlines has been connecting Croatia with Europe and the wider world for more than three decades. The results achieved during the first five months of 2026 demonstrate the carrier’s continued growth and strengthening market position despite a complex and uncertain global operating environment.