Croatia’s Adriatic coast is more accessible than ever in summer 2026, with three major airports—Split, Dubrovnik, and Zadar—offering direct connections to over 200 destinations worldwide. From short European city hops to the first regular transatlantic route to Split, travellers now have more ways than ever to reach Croatia’s sun-soaked shores.
United Airlines Launches New York–Split Route
For the first time ever, Split Airport will welcome direct transatlantic service.
United Airlines—part of the Star Alliance network—is launching a seasonal route between New York (EWR) and Split (SPU) starting April 30, 2026, operating three times a week on Boeing 767-300 aircraft.
- 🛫 Depart Split: 10:00 a.m. → arrive in New York at 2:00 p.m.
- 🛬 Depart New York: 5:00 p.m. → arrive in Split around 8:00 a.m. the next day.
This will be Split’s first-ever direct U.S. connection and the only regular wide-body route in the airport’s history—a major milestone for tourism and yacht charter travellers.
Croatia’s Main Airports and Flight Connections
Split Airport (SPU) — also known as Zračna luka Resnik — is Croatia’s largest and busiest airport, handling around 250 daily flights to 74 destinations in 26 countries. Carriers include Croatia Airlines, easyJet, Eurowings, and more than 30 international airlines.
Dubrovnik Airport (DBV) — or Zračna luka Dubrovnik — follows closely with 220 daily flights to 70 destinations in 24 countries, including the U.S. (EWR, New Jersey). Major airlines include Ryanair, Croatia Airlines, easyJet, and many others.
Zadar Airport (ZAD) — Zračna luka Zadar — serves as a vibrant hub for central Dalmatia, with 90 daily flights to 64 destinations in 22 countries, led by Ryanair, Croatia Airlines, and Eurowings.
Together, these airports provide seamless access to Croatia’s coast — connecting travellers from nearly every part of Europe and beyond.
Where Can You Fly Directly to Croatia in 2026?
From Europe
Croatia is directly connected with major cities across:
Germany, the United Kingdom, Italy, Switzerland, Poland, Austria, Sweden, the Netherlands, France, Spain, Greece, Norway, Portugal, Ireland, Latvia, Estonia, Slovakia, the Czech Republic, Bulgaria, Romania, Lithuania, Belgium, Denmark, Luxembourg, and Serbia.
From the USA & Beyond
- United Airlines: New York (EWR) → Split (SPU)
- United Airlines: New York (EWR) → Dubrovnik (DBV)
- Fly Dubai / Emirates Partners: Dubai → Dubrovnik (seasonal)
With these routes, Croatia becomes one of the best-connected Mediterranean destinations for 2026.
Why This Matters for Travelers and Charter Guests
- Easier arrivals – Nonstop flights reduce transfer times for guests travelling to yacht bases in Split, Trogir, Zadar, and Dubrovnik.
- Perfect for charters – Direct access from Europe and the U.S. makes boarding in Split or Dubrovnik simple and stress-free.
- More airlines, better flexibility – Over 60 carriers now serve Croatian airports seasonally or year-round.
With nonstop routes from across Europe and North America, Croatia’s Adriatic coast will be more reachable than ever. Whether you’re flying in for a luxury yacht charter, an island-hopping holiday, or a coastal escape, Split, Dubrovnik, and Zadar welcome you with open skies.
Already planning your summer escape?
Once you arrive, explore the Adriatic in style — check out our feature on Luxury Yacht Charter Croatia 2026 – 7-Day Adriatic Route and get inspired by the most scenic routes, hidden bays, and islands to visit this season.
Photo: Croatian Aviation
