Ryanair launches record Summer 2026 schedule for Croatia - Get updated on what's happening in tourism!

Ryanair has unveiled its largest-ever summer programme for the Croatian market. The airline will operate its Summer 2026 schedule with nine based aircraft, representing an investment of approximately US$900 million. The expanded programme comprises 118 routes and a total capacity of 4.3 million seats, reflecting growth of five percent compared with the previous year.

The network will span seven Croatian airports, supported by operational bases in Dubrovnik, Zadar and Zagreb. Among the additions are two new routes from Dubrovnik to Budapest and Gdansk.

Capacity growth and operational expansion

According to the airline, the Summer 2026 schedule will include more than 850 weekly flights. Ryanair states that the programme will support over 3,500 jobs linked directly and indirectly to its Croatian operations.

The carrier attributes the continued expansion in Croatia to competitive airport charges, which it says have enabled sustained traffic growth and year-round connectivity. Ryanair contrasts these conditions with other European markets where higher operating costs and aviation taxes have constrained capacity development.

Policy framework seen as growth factor

Ryanair emphasises the role of regulatory and cost structures in shaping airline investment decisions. The airline argues that Croatia’s post-pandemic traffic recovery has benefited from comparatively favourable access costs.

At the same time, Ryanair calls on the Croatian government to review existing taxation mechanisms. Specifically, the carrier urges the removal of the CAA Tax, which it describes as an outdated levy affecting both airlines and passengers. Ryanair proposes reallocating funding currently used for selected PSO routes.

Airline perspective on market development

Speaking in Zagreb, Ryanair Chief Commercial Officer Jason McGuinness highlighted the scale of the expansion.

“As Europe and Croatia’s No.1 airline, Ryanair is pleased to announce our biggest-ever Croatia Summer schedule, delivering 4.3 million seats (+5% growth), operating 118 routes – including exciting new routes from Dubrovnik to Budapest and Gdansk. This record schedule is underpinned by nine based aircraft across our bases in Dubrovnik, Zadar and Zagreb, while supporting over 3,500 jobs.

Croatia continues to achieve strong traffic and tourism growth thanks to its competitive access conditions, which have enabled Ryanair to expand low-fare connectivity and address seasonality. However, to unlock further growth and investment, Croatia must maintain this competitive advantage.”

Promotional fares accompany launch

To mark the launch of the Summer 2026 programme, Ryanair has introduced a limited three-day seat sale. Promotional fares start from €29.99 and are available exclusively via the Ryanair app.

With the expanded schedule, Ryanair further strengthens its position in Croatia, reinforcing both leisure and city connectivity ahead of the peak summer season.

Image Credit: © Ryanair