Croatia Airlines records best-ever first quarter and adapts operations amid global fuel price surge

(Photo: Croatia Airlines)

ZAGREB, 2 April 2026 – Croatia’s national carrier, Croatia Airlines, has recorded the strongest first quarter in its history, transporting more than 405,000 passengers in the first three months of 2026.

The figure represents a 22% increase compared with the same period last year, or around 74,000 additional passengers, marking a record start to the year for the airline.

The strong performance comes at a time when the company is in the middle of the largest project in its history, the modernisation of its fleet with new Airbus A220 aircraft.

Despite the record growth, the airline says the current geopolitical situation presents significant challenges. The ongoing conflict in the Middle East has triggered sharp increases in jet fuel prices, one of the largest operational costs in the aviation industry.

The rise in energy prices and broader market volatility is affecting airlines worldwide and is expected to impact financial results across the global aviation sector in the coming months.

Croatia Airlines said the crisis emerged at a time of strong operational expansion, requiring careful adjustments to operations and commercial activities.

Crisis management measures in place

In response to market instability, the airline has activated crisis management mechanisms, focusing on:

• Optimising flight operations

• Careful management of costs and revenues

• Maintaining a stable and reliable flight network

The company emphasised that maintaining connectivity remains a priority while ensuring competitiveness in ticket pricing and scheduling.

Supply chain pressures also rising

Geopolitical tensions and instability in energy markets are also affecting the availability and cost of aircraft spare parts, an issue increasingly faced across the aviation sector.

Industry experts point to growing demand from the global defence sector, which is placing additional pressure on aviation supply chains.

(Photo: Šime Lugarov/Croatia Airlines)

As a result, Croatia Airlines is adjusting both operational and commercial plans to adapt to the evolving conditions.

For decades, Croatia Airlines has played a crucial role in connecting Croatia with Europe and the wider world, supporting tourism, economic development and mobility for citizens.

The airline highlighted that its role as the country’s national carrier remains particularly important in times of global uncertainty, ensuring stable air connectivity and supporting the broader public interest.