Croatia Airlines

As the national flag carrier of Croatia, Croatia Airlines stands as a proud ambassador of Croatian hospitality in the skies. Since its inception, the airline has been dedicated to connecting the stunning landscapes of the Adriatic coast with major European capitals, offering passengers a seamless travel experience infused with local charm. Whether you are traveling for business or leisure, flying with this Star Alliance member ensures a journey marked by safety, punctuality, and a warm welcome from the moment you step on board.

History and Development
Founded in 1989 under the name Zagal, the company was rebranded as Croatia Airlines in 1990. Over the decades, it has grown from a small regional operator into a modern European carrier. A pivotal moment in its history was becoming a member of the Star Alliance in 2004, a move that significantly expanded its global reach and allowed it to offer passengers seamless connections to destinations worldwide.

Network and Key Markets
The airline plays a vital role in connecting the Balkans to the rest of Europe. From its primary hub in Zagreb, it operates frequent flights to major commercial and transit hubs, including Frankfurt am Main, Munich, Zurich, and Vienna. Beyond business travel, the carrier is essential for Croatia's tourism industry, linking popular coastal cities like Dubrovnik and Split with international visitors, especially during the summer season.

Fleet and Service
Croatia Airlines operates a fleet designed for flexibility and efficiency, comprising Airbus A319, Airbus A320, and Dash 8-Q400 aircraft. This mix allows them to serve both short regional routes and longer European sectors effectively. The company is also in the process of modernizing its fleet to improve fuel efficiency and passenger comfort. Onboard, travelers can expect professional service and complimentary refreshments that often feature a taste of local Croatian cuisine.

Safety and Values
Safety is the cornerstone of the airline's operations. Croatia Airlines strictly adheres to international safety regulations and holds the IOSA (IATA Operational Safety Audit) registration, underscoring its commitment to the highest operational standards. The company's mission is to connect Croatia to the world while promoting the country's rich cultural heritage through exceptional service and reliability.

Travelers in the United Arab Emirates can connect with Croatia Airlines primarily through their international customer service center and digital channels. While there is no dedicated local branch in Dubai or Abu Dhabi, the airline provides comprehensive support in English for booking inquiries, ticket changes, and flight information via their global headquarters in Zagreb.

Official Website
For the most direct service, including flight bookings and check-in, visit the official global website:
www.croatiaairlines.com

Contact Information

• Official Website: www.croatiaairlines.com
• International Customer Service: +385 1 66 76 555 (Available for calls from the UAE; international charges apply)
• Email Support: contact@croatiaairlines.hr
• Mobile App: "Croatia Airlines" (Available on Apple App Store and Google Play Store)

Social Media
Stay updated with the latest news and announcements through their official social media profiles:

• Facebook: facebook.com/croatiaairlines
• Twitter/X: twitter.com/croatiaairlines
• Instagram: instagram.com/croatia.airlines
• LinkedIn: linkedin.com/company/croatia-airlines

Local Offices in United Arab Emirates
Currently, Croatia Airlines does not have a physical sales office or walk-in customer service desk in the United Arab Emirates. All inquiries regarding reservations and ticketing should be directed to the International Customer Service line or handled online.

Extended Support
If you require urgent assistance outside of standard working hours (08:00 – 20:00 CET), you may contact the support team at Zagreb Airport:
Urgent Contact: +385 1 6164 581 or +385 1 6265 930

Preparing for your journey with Croatia Airlines is the first step toward a smooth travel experience. Whether you are flying to the sunny coast of Split or connecting through the busy hub of Zagreb, understanding the baggage allowance will help you pack with confidence. The airline’s policies are designed to accommodate various travel needs, from light weekend getaways to extended vacations.

Carry-on Baggage Allowance
All passengers traveling with Croatia Airlines are entitled to bring hand luggage into the cabin. The allowance depends on your travel class:

• Economy Class: You may bring 1 piece of hand luggage weighing up to 8 kg.
• Business Class: You are allowed 2 pieces of hand luggage, each weighing up to 8 kg.

The maximum dimensions for carry-on bags are 55 x 40 x 23 cm. In addition to your main carry-on, you may also bring one small personal item, such as a handbag, laptop bag, or briefcase, with maximum dimensions of 40 x 30 x 10 cm. This item must fit under the seat in front of you.

Checked Baggage Information
Your checked baggage allowance varies significantly based on the fare family you purchased. It is crucial to check your ticket type before packing:

• FlyEasy (Economy Light): This fare typically includes no checked baggage. Bags can be added for a fee.
• FlyOpti and FlyFlexi (Standard Economy): Includes 1 piece of checked baggage weighing up to 23 kg.
• Business Class: Includes a generous allowance of 2 pieces, each weighing up to 32 kg.

The sum of the dimensions (length + width + height) for any checked bag should not exceed 158 cm. Star Alliance Gold members may be eligible for additional baggage benefits depending on the route.

Excess and Special Baggage
If your luggage exceeds the weight or size limits, or if you wish to bring extra pieces, additional fees will apply. These fees are generally lower if paid in advance online rather than at the airport. For travelers planning an active holiday, such as skiing in Sarajevo or cycling near the Adriatic, sports equipment can be transported. You must notify the airline in advance, as space is limited, and fees vary depending on the size of the equipment (Small, Medium, or Large). Musical instruments can be carried as hand luggage if they fit within the dimensions, or you can purchase an extra seat for larger instruments like cellos.

Restricted and Prohibited Items
To ensure safety on board, certain items are strictly prohibited in both carry-on and checked baggage. These include explosives, flammable liquids, and oxidizing substances. In your carry-on, liquids, gels, and aerosols must be in containers of 100 ml or less, packed in a single transparent, resealable plastic bag of up to 1 liter capacity. Lithium batteries and power banks must always be packed in your carry-on luggage and never in the hold.

Tips for Packing Efficiently
To avoid unexpected charges and stress at the airport, consider these helpful tips:

• Weigh at Home: Use a luggage scale to ensure your bags are within the limits before you leave for the airport.
• Label Your Bags: Attach a tag with your name, phone number, and email address to the outside and inside of your checked luggage.
• Keep Valuables Close: Always pack essential medication, documents, jewelry, and electronics in your carry-on bag.
• Distribute Weight: If traveling with a companion, consider splitting heavy items between your bags to balance the weight.

Traveling with your four-legged friend on Croatia Airlines is a welcoming and straightforward experience. The airline understands that pets are part of the family and offers specific services to ensure cats and dogs can travel safely. Whether you are flying to the main hub in Zagreb, heading to the coast of Split, or exploring the historic streets of Dubrovnik, you can arrange for your pet to accompany you in the cabin or in the climate-controlled hold.

Transport Options

In cabin (carry-on)

• Carrier dimensions: Soft-sided bags are strictly recommended. The sum of the bag's dimensions (length + width + height) must not exceed 115 cm. The carrier must fit completely under the seat in front of you.
• Maximum pet weight with carrier: Up to 8 kg.
• Allowed pet types: Only dogs and cats are permitted in the passenger cabin.
• Breed restrictions: There are typically no breed restrictions for the cabin, provided the animal remains inside the carrier and behaves calmly.
• Limit per passenger: One carrier per passenger is allowed; two small animals of the same species may share a carrier if they are comfortable and the total weight limit is met.

In cargo hold (checked baggage)

• Container/crate requirements: Pets must travel in a rigid, IATA-compliant plastic or fiberglass crate with a secure locking mechanism and adequate ventilation on all sides.
• Weight and size limits: This option is designed for animals that, together with their crate, exceed 8 kg. It is important to note that maximum crate size may depend on the specific aircraft type, particularly on smaller Dash 8-Q400 planes used for regional routes.
• Temperature restrictions: For the safety of your animal, pets may not be accepted if extreme temperatures (too hot or too cold) are forecast at departure, transit, or arrival airports.
• Required documentation: All original health documents must travel attached to the crate or with the animal's paperwork.

As cargo (for large animals)

• When this option is required: This service is necessary for very large crates, unaccompanied pets, or travel to countries with strict import rules that mandate cargo entry.
• Special requirements: The transport container must meet strict air cargo construction standards.
• Booking procedure: These arrangements are distinct from passenger bookings and must be made through the airline's cargo department or a certified freight forwarder.

Required Documentation

• Valid Veterinary Passport (pet passport) identifying the animal.
• Health certificate issued by a licensed veterinarian (ensure you check the required validity window before travel).
• Proof of valid rabies vaccination.
• International health certificates and specific import permits for travel outside the European Union.

Service Costs

• In-cabin fee: Typically ranges from approximately 50 EUR to 70 EUR per direction, depending on whether the route is domestic or international.
• Cargo hold fee: generally ranges from 100 EUR to 200 EUR per direction, varying based on the size of the container and the destination.
• Note: Prices are subject to change based on routes and exchange rates; always confirm the exact fee with customer service during booking.

Preparation Tips

• Carrier requirements: Ensure your pet has enough space to stand up, turn around, and lie down naturally in their crate.
• Feeding before flight: It is advisable to feed your pet a light meal 4 to 6 hours before departure to minimize the risk of discomfort or airsickness.
• Stress reduction: Familiarize your pet with the travel carrier weeks in advance. Placing a familiar blanket inside (without loose items that could be swallowed) can help calm them.

Restrictions

• Prohibited breeds: Snub-nosed (brachycephalic) dogs and cats (such as Pugs, Bulldogs, and Persians) are often restricted from traveling in the cargo hold due to respiratory risks associated with stress and air pressure changes.
• Prohibited animals: Rodents, reptiles, and birds are generally not accepted in the cabin or hold on standard passenger flights.
• Exceptions: Certified service dogs trained to assist passengers with disabilities travel free of charge in the cabin, provided all requirements are met.

Important: Airline policies regarding pet travel can change due to operational reasons or aircraft substitutions. We strongly recommend contacting Croatia Airlines directly well in advance of your trip to reserve space for your pet, as capacity is limited.

Croatia Airlines participates in Miles & More, one of Europe's most extensive frequent flyer programs. This partnership allows passengers to earn valuable miles not only on flights to the airline's hub in Zagreb but also across a vast global network. Whether traveling for business or leisure, the program provides a structured way to accumulate benefits that enhance the overall travel experience.

Membership Status Levels
The program is divided into several tiers, each unlocking specific privileges designed to make travel more comfortable:

• Member: Travelers can start collecting award and status miles immediately upon free registration.
• Frequent Traveller: Reaching this level grants benefits such as Business Class check-in and an increased baggage allowance.
• Senator: This status includes access to Star Alliance lounges worldwide and priority boarding services.
• HON Circle: The highest tier offers exclusive services, including access to the First Class Terminal at select hubs and limousine transfers.

How to Earn Miles
Accumulating miles is straightforward and extends beyond air travel:

• Flights: Earn miles on every scheduled flight with Croatia Airlines and all Star Alliance member carriers.
• Ground Partners: Miles can be collected when booking hotels, renting cars, or using co-branded credit cards for daily purchases.
• Shopping: Purchases at airport duty-free shops and selected online retailers also contribute to the mileage balance.

Spending Your Miles
Accumulated miles can be exchanged for a variety of rewards:

• Flight Awards: Redeem miles for tickets to popular coastal destinations like Split or Dubrovnik.
• Upgrades: Use miles to upgrade from Economy to Business Class for added comfort during the journey.
• Travel Services: Miles can be used to pay for rental cars, hotels, or airport parking fees.
• Merchandise: The Worldshop offers luggage, electronics, and accessories in exchange for miles.

Star Alliance Benefits
As a member of the Star Alliance, Croatia Airlines connects passengers to a global network. Status achieved through Miles & More is recognized by all member airlines, ensuring consistent privileges such as lounge access and priority handling when flying with partners like Lufthansa, United Airlines, or SWISS.

Registration
Joining the program is free and can be done online via the Croatia Airlines website or the Miles & More app. New members receive a temporary card number immediately, allowing them to start earning miles on their very next flight.

Croatia Airlines is committed to providing a comfortable and pleasant journey, whether you are taking a short regional hop to Sarajevo or a longer international flight to Frankfurt am Main. The airline operates a two-class service model—Business Class and Economy Class—tailored to meet the diverse needs of modern travelers. While the fleet primarily consists of narrow-body aircraft designed for European routes, the interior service is focused on Croatian hospitality and efficiency.

Business Class
For passengers seeking extra comfort and privacy, Business Class offers a premium experience from the moment you arrive at the airport. Benefits include priority check-in, fast-track security at select airports, and access to business lounges. On board, the seating configuration is designed to maximize personal space. On Airbus aircraft, the middle seat is kept empty, ensuring you have more room to work or relax. On the Dash 8-Q400 turboprop aircraft, passengers are seated in the front rows with attentive service. Business Class travelers enjoy a complimentary meal service featuring hot or cold dishes inspired by Croatian cuisine, served on porcelain tableware, along with a selection of alcoholic and non-alcoholic beverages.

Economy Class
Economy Class provides a reliable and value-for-money option for reaching destinations like Zagreb, Split, and Dubrovnik. The cabins are equipped with ergonomic leather seats designed to provide adequate legroom for short to medium-haul flights. Depending on the fare family purchased (FlyEasy, FlyOpti, or FlyFlexi), passengers can customize their travel with add-ons like checked baggage or seat selection. The atmosphere is professional and welcoming, making it a suitable choice for both tourists and family visitors.

In-Flight Dining
Croatia Airlines takes pride in offering a "Taste of Croatia" even at 30,000 feet.

• Economy Class: Passengers typically receive a complimentary snack, such as traditional Croatian crackers or cookies, along with a cup of water. On longer flights, additional refreshments may be available.
• Business Class: The dining experience is more extensive, featuring seasonal menus that highlight local ingredients. Meals are accompanied by a selection of top-quality Croatian wines and other beverages.

Entertainment and Connectivity
To keep passengers engaged during the flight, the airline creates a digital environment through its specific services. While the aircraft do not feature seat-back screens, many planes in the fleet are equipped with a wireless in-flight entertainment system. Passengers can stream content, including movies, documentaries about Croatia, and music, directly to their own smartphones, tablets, or laptops. It is recommended to download the airline's app or ensure your device is charged before boarding, as power outlets may not be available on all older aircraft configurations.

Special Assistance and Family Travel
The airline is dedicated to making air travel accessible to everyone.

• Families with Children: For those traveling with infants, special belts are provided, and parents can bring a stroller to the aircraft door. Unaccompanied Minor (UM) services are available for children aged 5 to 12 traveling alone, ensuring they are supervised from check-in until they are handed over to the designated guardian at the destination.
• Passengers with Reduced Mobility: Comprehensive assistance is available for passengers requiring wheelchairs or other support. It is crucial to request these services at least 48 hours in advance to ensure a smooth transfer through airports like Munich or Zurich and upon arrival in Croatia.
• Special Meals: Passengers in Business Class or those with specific dietary requirements (medical, religious, or vegetarian) can pre-order special meals on flights where a full meal service is offered.

Operating primarily from its central hub in Zagreb, Croatia Airlines maintains a robust network that bridges the Balkans with the rest of Europe. The carrier offers frequent connections to major international gateways and scenic coastal cities, ensuring convenient travel options for visitors throughout the year.

Major European Connections
For travelers flying from international destinations, the airline provides reliable links to key aviation centers. Frequent flights connect the Croatian capital with Frankfurt am Main, Munich, and Zurich, allowing for seamless transfers from long-haul journeys. The network also serves vital commercial and cultural capitals including Vienna, Amsterdam, and Brussels.

Adriatic Coast and Region
Croatia’s stunning coastline is easily accessible, with the airline connecting the world to the historic walls of Dubrovnik and the vibrant promenade of Split. Beyond the coast, the carrier strengthens regional connectivity with flights to neighboring Sarajevo and Mostar, as well as Skopje, making it an ideal choice for exploring the wider Balkan peninsula.

City Breaks and Northern Europe
Whether planning a romantic getaway or a cultural excursion, passengers can take advantage of direct routes to iconic cities like Paris, Rome, and Barcelona. The network also extends its reach to Northern Europe, offering service to Copenhagen, Stockholm, and the dynamic streets of Berlin.

Securing the perfect itinerary with Croatia Airlines is the first step toward a memorable European adventure. As the national carrier, it connects travelers to the heart of the country via its main hub in Zagreb, as well as through major international gateways like Frankfurt am Main and Munich. To ensure a smooth experience from the moment you purchase your ticket, it is helpful to know a few insider strategies regarding their booking systems and services.

Timing is Everything
To secure the most competitive fares, aim to book your flights at least two to three months in advance. This is particularly important if you plan to visit popular coastal destinations like Dubrovnik or Split during the peak summer season when demand is highest. If your travel dates are flexible, flying mid-week often yields lower prices compared to weekends. Additionally, keep an eye out for shoulder season tickets in late spring or early autumn, which often combine lower fares with pleasant weather.

Finding the Best Deals
Croatia Airlines frequently releases promotional offers for various European routes. To stay updated, it is recommended to subscribe to their newsletter or regularly check the "Special Offers" section on their official website. Since the airline is a member of the Star Alliance, frequent flyers can also look for award ticket availability or use miles to upgrade their journey, adding extra value to the trip.

Streamlined Check-In
To save time at the airport, utilize the Web Check-in service. It typically opens 36 hours prior to the scheduled departure time. This allows you to choose your preferred seat and print your boarding pass or save it to your mobile device before leaving home. For travelers with only hand luggage, this means you can proceed directly to security upon arrival at the airport, bypassing the check-in counters entirely.

Seat Selection and Mobile Convenience
While seat selection is often free during the online check-in window, you may want to reserve a specific spot in advance for a fee if you have a preference, such as a window seat to enjoy views of the Adriatic. For on-the-go management, download the Croatia Airlines mobile app. It provides a centralized place to track your flight status, store digital boarding passes, and receive real-time notifications about gate changes or delays.

Travel Insurance
Regardless of how well you plan, unexpected events can occur. It is highly advisable to purchase comprehensive travel insurance at the time of booking. Ensure your policy covers flight cancellations, medical emergencies, and lost luggage, providing you with peace of mind as you travel from the UAE to Europe.

The story of the national carrier began in August 1989, when it was founded under the name Zagal (Zagreb Airlines). Initially established as an air transport company providing postal services and air taxi operations, it marked the modest beginning of what would become a vital link for the country. In July 1990, the company underwent a significant rebranding, adopting the name Croatia Airlines, which it proudly bears today.

Taking Flight and Early Expansion
The airline's first commercial passenger flight took off on May 5, 1991, connecting the capital, Zagreb, with the coastal city of Split. This domestic connection laid the groundwork for future operations. By 1992, the carrier launched its first international route to Frankfurt am Main. This connection established a critical bridge to Europe, which remains one of the airline's most frequent and important routes to this day. Shortly after, the network expanded to include other major hubs like Zurich and Munich.

Fleet Evolution
In its formative years, the airline operated a mix of leased aircraft, including McDonnell Douglas MD-82s and later Boeing 737s, which were the backbone of its international expansion in the 1990s. A major strategic shift occurred at the turn of the millennium when the company decided to modernize its fleet with European-made aircraft. The introduction of Airbus A319 and A320 jets allowed for greater comfort and capacity, while the addition of Dash 8-Q400 turboprops enabled efficient service to smaller regional airports and neighboring cities like Dubrovnik and Sarajevo.

Joining the Global Stage
A pivotal milestone in the company's history was its integration into the Star Alliance. In 2004, Croatia Airlines became a regional member, and subsequently a full member, of the world's largest airline alliance. This partnership significantly elevated its status, allowing passengers to benefit from code-share agreements, seamless transfers, and a global reach that extended far beyond the carrier's own network.

Modern Innovations and Future
Today, Croatia Airlines continues to evolve to meet the demands of modern travel. The company has embarked on a comprehensive fleet renewal program, focusing on fuel efficiency and environmental sustainability. Recent strategic plans include the transition to a unified fleet of new-generation Airbus A220 aircraft. This move aims to optimize operations, reduce emissions, and provide passengers with a quieter, more comfortable cabin experience as the airline enters its next decade of connecting the Adriatic to the world.