Work begins on €14 million Osijek Airport terminal expansion

(Photo: Grad Osijek)

Work has officially begun on the reconstruction and expansion of the passenger terminal at Osijek Airport, one of the largest infrastructure investments in eastern Croatia’s transport sector.

The €14 million project will modernise the terminal, improve safety and operational efficiency, and significantly increase capacity.

The expansion aims to bring the terminal in line with Schengen requirements, enhance the travel experience, and accommodate a growing number of passengers.

Upon completion, the terminal’s area will increase from 2,173 to 2,730 square metres, with a new 50 x 8 metre canopy to be constructed.

The number of check-in counters will double from three to six, and a high-capacity baggage screening system will be introduced to streamline passenger flow.

(Photo: Grad Osijek)

Mayor of Osijek, Ivan Radić, welcomed the launch of construction and emphasised the strategic importance of the investment for the city and region.

“This project will greatly improve safety and the terminal’s interior, attracting new passengers. Since 2021, we’ve gone from having no international flights to now having routes to London and Munich, alongside domestic PSO flights. Passenger numbers are projected to increase fivefold by 2025, from around 10,000 to 50,000,” he said.

(Photo: Grad Osijek)

Radić also highlighted broader infrastructure improvements across Osijek, including the renovation of the city’s railway station, the ongoing development of a bulk cargo port, and the upcoming opening of a key section of the Pan-European Corridor Vc.

“Osijek is growing and moving forward,” he added.

(Photo: Grad Osijek)

Member of Parliament Nataša Tramišak underlined the importance of the terminal upgrade for regional economic development.

“Osijek Airport has international status, and the reconstruction will enable compliance with Schengen standards. In 2024, the airport served over 45,000 passengers, showing clear growth. This opens up new prospects for tourism and the economy in Osijek and the Osijek-Baranja County,” said Tramišak.

(Photo: Grad Osijek)

Acting County Prefect, Mato Lukić, congratulated all those involved and stressed the value of the project in strengthening connectivity across the region.

“We know how crucial air transport is for our county and eastern Croatia as a whole. This investment will further support the growth of tourism and the economy. We look forward to gathering again soon to celebrate the opening of the new terminal,” Lukić said.

(Photo: Grad Osijek)

Tihomir Pejin, Director of Osijek Airport, described the project as a long-awaited milestone, made possible with strong support from the Ministry of the Sea, Transport and Infrastructure, Osijek-Baranja County, and the City of Osijek.

“This investment is not just financial—it’s a comprehensive upgrade to the terminal’s energy efficiency, appearance, security and operations. Passengers can expect more comfort, faster service and a better overall experience,” said Pejin.

(Photo: Grad Osijek)

He confirmed that the airport will remain operational throughout the 14-month construction period. The works will include internal renovations, facade reconstruction, new border control and security areas, and full compliance with Schengen criteria.

Completion is expected by spring 2026, with stakeholders optimistic that the upgraded terminal will mark a new chapter in Osijek’s transport and tourism development.