Croatian airports break historical records
- by croatiaweek
- in News
The year 2024 will be remembered as a record-breaking year for Croatian airports, which collectively handled 13,211,777 passengers—a significant increase of 1,846,883 passengers or 16.25% compared to the previous year, Dalmacija Danas reported.
The surge in passenger numbers was driven by an expansion of direct flight routes, modernised infrastructure, and more affordable airfares.
While most airports reported growth, Rijeka Airport remains an exception with a continued decline in traffic, raising concerns about its future.
However, the broader trend indicates a strong upward trajectory for air travel in Croatia.
Zadar Airport recorded the highest passenger growth among Croatian airports, with a remarkable 29.50% increase, reaching 1,230,835 passengers.
The airport’s collaboration with airlines like Ryanair and the introduction of new routes to Scandinavia, Germany, and the UK cemented its position as the fourth busiest airport in the country.
Dubrovnik Airport also had an impressive year, welcoming 2,954,934 passengers, a 22.27% increase. Key factors included the expansion and modernisation of its terminal, the implementation of advanced passenger check-in and security systems, and the launch of new routes to the United States and the Middle East.
Franjo Tuđman Airport in Zagreb, Croatia’s largest, continued to grow with a 15.92% rise in passenger numbers, totalling 4,316,619.
– The international airport has profiled itself as a year-round destination. Last year, we had 66 direct flights from Zagreb in the summer schedule, and now we have 48 in the winter schedule. This year, we expect a 10 percent increase in passengers and an increased number of destinations. T’way Air’s direct flight from Seoul to Zagreb is coming back, we will have four intercontinental flights, Lidia Capković Martinek, a spokeswoman for “Franjo Tuđman” Airport, Zagreb told HRT.
Split Airport, despite no major infrastructure projects in 2024, reported a 14.71% increase in passenger numbers, reaching 3,869,000. Plans for future investments are already underway to support continued growth.
Pula Airport saw a 19.95% jump in passenger numbers, underlining Istria’s rising appeal as a tourist destination. Efforts to address seasonal pressures during the summer months are also in the pipeline.