This strategic move follows the airport’s existing seasonal route from Newark, operated by United Airlines, and reflects Dubrovnik’s growing significance as a transatlantic hub. In recent years, the airport briefly hosted Delta’s service from New York’s JFK Airport and American Airlines’ route from Philadelphia, underscoring the region’s appeal to American travellers.
“We are the only airport in Croatia with a nonstop service to the US, but one route is proving insufficient,” remarked Mr. Šober, a key figure in the airport’s management. He disclosed that discussions for a new US connection are at an advanced stage, though progress is hindered by the global shortage of aircraft and delays in the production of new jets. “It’s a complex situation,” he noted, “but I am confident that within the next year or two, we will have something concrete.”
The airport’s ambitious expansion plans come amid a period of unprecedented growth.
Much of this success can be attributed to the establishment of a Ryanair base, which has been instrumental in introducing over twenty new routes, including crucial off-season connections.
Last week, Dubrovnik Airport celebrated its two-millionth passenger of the year, a milestone achieved a full month ahead of last year’s pace
“Ryanair’s impact has been particularly felt during the pre-season and post-season periods,” Mr. Šober explained. Among the highlights of this collaboration are the winter services to London, Vienna, and Brussels, each operating twice weekly. These routes, secured after negotiations that began in the summer of 2023, are seen as a trial run for potential future expansions. “If these routes prove successful, we plan to increase services next winter and expand our offerings based on this summer’s performance,” he added.
As Dubrovnik Airport continues to build on its success, the potential addition of a new US route could further elevate its status on the global aviation map, bringing the historic city closer to travellers from across the Atlantic.
