Half a billion euros for 15 aircraft over 12 years is a great deal, says Croatian Prime Minister Andrej Plenković about the Airbus A220 aircraft deal.

The Croatian airline Croatia Airlines, also a member of the Star Alliance, has already received its first A220-300 aircraft at the Canadian Airbus plant in Mirabel.

The delivery is part of the airline’s renewal efforts with next-generation aircraft, the largest project in the company’s history as it celebrates its 35th anniversary this year.

Croatian Prime Minister Andrej Plenkovic took part in the welcoming ceremony of the new Airbus A220-300 ‘Zagreb’ at Franjo Tuđman Airport.

In his speech, he thanked those present for their contribution to the comprehensive renewal of Croatia Airlines’ fleet.

“This is the time when Croatia is modernising its aviation,” he said.

Leasing contracts have been signed to purchase 15 new Airbus A220-300 aircraft, which will arrive gradually over the next three years.

“Half a billion euros for 15 aircraft over 12 years is a great deal and this type of agreement will enable Croatia Airlines to have new, modern, comfortable and safe aircraft, which will certainly help them in the market and in comparison to the competition,” said Plenković.

The plane “Zagreb” is the first aircraft delivered to the airline from 13 A220-300s and two A220-100s on firm order from Airbus.

Prime Minister Andrej Plenković pointed out that this would happen if Croatia Airlines, the Croatian airline, celebrates its 35th anniversary and added that it is also a symbol of Croatia, part of its brand, identity and our international presence, as well as of those actors that contribute to the Croatian economy and the large number of tourist arrivals in Croatia.

He recalled that this year traffic at all airports between 10 and 25 percentand Croatia Airlines, which 35 travel destinationshave contributed to this.

He also recalled moments of crisis for the company, such as during the Covid 19 pandemic, but the company, together with the government, found a way to stay on its feet.

“The country, which is the 18th tourist destination in the world and has currently exceeded half of the arrivals and overnight stays compared to last year’s tourism season, always has a company that can be relied on,” said Plenković.

The Prime Minister stressed that the government stands firmly behind Croatia Airlines and will continue to do so in the future, and stated that the company’s business figures were very positive with growth of three percent.

“I am convinced that you will manage the company rationally and responsibly, and the new aircraft will be a source of pride for you and for the whole of Croatia, and will bring satisfaction to all who will travel with you,” he said.

In addition, it was revealed that Croatia Airlines is evaluating the benefits of the upcoming Airbus A321XLR, which is expected to offer greater range compared to Airbus’ current narrow-body aircraft and eventually open up new markets. However, the airline believes that such developments are still in the “distant future”.

CEO of Croatia Airlines, Jasmin Bajićrecently said:

“In the long term, aircraft such as the A321XLR could be considered, but that is a distant possibility. However, we will always continue to look for new opportunities.”

Andrej Plenković also recalled that three months ago the new Rafale multi-role fighter aircraft were welcomed and that, just as we are experiencing a renaissance on the coast and on the islands, it is also time for a great renaissance of Croatian public aviation.