The Croatian Ministry of Defense has confirmed to AvioRadar that Lučko Airport, the country’s largest general aviation airport, will soon be equipped with an asphalt runway.
Owned by the Republic of Croatia under the Ministry of Defense, a portion of the airport is leased for civilian use to the Aeroklub Zagreb. According to the Ministry of Defense, the 1993 agreement grants Aeroklub Zagreb the right to manage and use the airport free of charge to support its aviation sports activities on a non-commercial basis, provided the facilities are well-maintained.
Currently, Lučko Airport features two grass runways: 28R/10L for gliders and 28L/10R for motorized planes and helicopters used by the Ministry of Defense and the Ministry of Interior. Addressing plans for the runway upgrade, the Ministry stated: “To enhance air traffic safety and infrastructure at Lučko Airport, we plan to invest in asphalting and extending the runway, along with related taxiways.”
The existing runway measures 850 meters in length and 30 meters in width. Extending it to 1,000 meters could potentially accommodate smaller private jets, a significant development as there has been no alternative airport for such aircraft near Croatia’s capital until now.
When asked about technical details of the upcoming runway improvements, the Ministry responded: “As the project is still in its initial phase, we are unable to provide specific details on timelines, equipment, or the final runway dimensions. However, we aim to maximize the available space while complying with all legal safety requirements.”
One crucial aspect of the renovation is ensuring that the upgraded runway remains accessible to civilian traffic. Lučko Airport serves as a teaching base for the Faculty of Traffic Sciences at the University of Zagreb, with aircraft stationed there for training, as well as numerous private pilots and owners.
This development marks a significant boost for Croatian general aviation, which currently relies on Franjo Tuđman Airport in Zagreb, with the nearest alternative asphalt runway located in Varaždin. If the investment includes lighting, additional navigation equipment, and upgraded infrastructure like a reception facility, Zagreb could gain an airport that supports tourism, business travel, and aviation sports.
