ZAGREB, 2 June (Hina) – Croatia Airlines transported 775,000 passengers between January and May 2026, up 20% or around 130,000 more passengers compared with the same period of 2025, the national carrier said on Tuesday.

The airline described the result as a record for the first five months of the year, reflecting strong operational growth. Passenger numbers increased in every month, with year-on-year growth ranging from 16% in May to 24% in January and March.

Croatia Airlines noted that passenger traffic grew in April despite declines at Croatia’s two largest airports, Zagreb and Split.

The carrier said the growth was achieved while implementing the largest project in its history “the renewal of its fleet with Airbus A220 aircraft“ aimed at improving efficiency, service quality and long-term sustainability.

The airline also warned that the conflict in the Middle East and the resulting rise in jet fuel prices are putting pressure on the aviation sector. It said geopolitical tensions and energy market volatility are expected to affect future business results, while also driving up the cost and reducing the availability of aircraft spare parts.