It’s not every day that an airline undergoes a fleet renewal, particularly for smaller carriers with just a dozen aircraft. However, this is precisely what is happening with our national carrier, Croatia Airlines. After extensive analysis and negotiations, which included considerations of the originally planned A319neo, the A320neo, the reliable Embraer, and a proposal from Boeing, the airline has ultimately chosen the Airbus A220—the smallest passenger aircraft in the Airbus family.
Croatia Airlines will incorporate 15 Airbus A220s into its fleet, comprising 13 of the larger A220-300 model and 2 of the smaller A220-100 variant. This decision marks a significant milestone in the airline’s modernization efforts.
During the evaluation phase, an Airbus A220-300 operated by Air Baltic made a promotional flight to Zagreb, offering a firsthand experience of the aircraft’s capabilities. AvioRadar was onboard for this flight, and you can find a detailed report of the experience at the following link.
While much could be debated about which aircraft would best suit the Croatia Airlines fleet, the most important fact is that the first of the new aircraft has arrived. Croatia is finally receiving the modern fleet it deserves, a significant step forward for our national carrier. We hope that these new aircraft will help Croatia Airlines achieve its objectives, enhancing connectivity not only within Europe but also with nearby international destinations that this aircraft is capable of reaching.
After a long wait, the day has finally come—the first of these state-of-the-art aircraft has joined Croatia’s fleet. The other day we welcomed its arrival in Zagreb and after the certification flight to Dubrovnik, it was time of the first flight with passengers. When the editorial staff of AvioRadar received an invitation to the inaugural flight, there was no question about our excitement. This was an opportunity we couldn’t afford to miss—after all, the chance to experience the first flight of a new aircraft type in the fleet doesn’t come around often.
The inaugural A220 flight was scheduled for August 6, 2024, departing at 12:10 as flight OU652 from Zagreb to Split. Split is a crucial destination for Croatia Airlines, making it an excellent choice for this historic first flight, especially since it highlights the importance of domestic routes. The aircraft was set to return immediately to Zagreb as flight OU655, departing from Split at 13:35. A brief reception was planned in Split before we headed back to Zagreb.
Around 20 journalists had the privilege of participating in what we can undoubtedly call a historic event. We gathered at 10:45 in the Zagreb Airport terminal to check in for the flight, with the added perk of traveling in business class. For this special occasion, the business class cabin was expanded to nine rows. Frequent travelers know that business class usually occupies just a few rows, but this time, a significant portion of the aircraft was reserved for it.
After checking in, we proceeded to our gate and completed all necessary formalities. Security screening was swift, with barely anyone in line, allowing us to pass through quickly. We arrived at Gate 11, indicating that we would be taking a bus to the plane, which was stationed in Croatia Airlines’ hangar. We joked that the plane had been “well-garaged,” as it had spent more time in the hangar than outside, undergoing preparations for certification and its first commercial flight. After this inaugural journey, the aircraft would finally take its rightful place in the skies, carrying passengers where it belongs.
When we arrived at our gate, the area was still relatively empty. We initially expected only a few passengers to join us on this special flight, but we were pleasantly surprised as more passengers arrived, filling the plane to near capacity. If I recall correctly, there were about 120 passengers on board. Considering the expanded business class section, this meant the aircraft was very well occupied. Before the flight, we had a brief discussion with Croatia Airlines’ public relations team, who walked us through the “rules of the game,” including our timeframes, when we could conduct passenger interviews, and the duration of our stay in Split.
The arriving passengers were initially unaware of the significance of the flight. They noticed the large number of journalists but didn’t immediately grasp what was happening. However, those who glanced at the departure screen at Gate 11 could have quickly figured it out. For those who missed the screen, the situation was clarified during the announcement, revealing that they were about to participate in a historic first flight. Imagine not being an aviation enthusiast and suddenly finding yourself with the privilege of being on the inaugural flight of a new aircraft type—it must have been a delightful surprise.
Boarding the buses commenced, and we were driven to the old terminal, where our plane awaited us. There it stood—beautiful, clean, gleaming, and ready for its maiden voyage. Our excitement only grew as we approached. For us, this wasn’t just a job or an official duty; it was a labor of love. Aviation is our passion, and being on this first flight was a tremendous honor, an experience that will remain etched in our memories for the rest of our lives.
We boarded, took our seats and on the way took a little peek at what the plane looked like from the inside. Although we had the opportunity to investigate it in detail when it arrived from Canada. The seats are also good for taller people, they have plenty of room for the knees. Although we sat in the front part of the cabin, which has more legroom, but when we tried the back part of the plane, it’s not like we were banging our knees into the seat in front of us. So longer flights are not a problem in this aircraft. The seats are much more comfortable than in the Airbus fleet, softer and it’s really good to sit in them.
The headrests have an interesting addition, movable edges. This is good news for those sleeping on the plane, because they will be able to adjust them as they like and will keep their head on the seat, so it will not fall on their neighbor’s shoulder. Unless there is some hot girl or boy sitting in the next seat, so if you want to meet someone that way, then you don’t know about that extra seat. The seats also have mobile phone holders, which will definitely come in handy for anyone who wants to watch a series or movie, so they no longer have to hold their mobile phones in their hands or try to place them on the coffee table in every possible way.
We boarded the plane, found our seats, and took the opportunity to take a quick look around the cabin. Although we had already explored the aircraft in detail when it first arrived from Canada, it was nice to get a feel for it in flight. The seats, even for taller passengers, offer ample legroom, particularly in the front part of the cabin, which naturally has more space. However, even when we tried out the seats in the rear section, we didn’t find our knees pressing against the seat in front of us—a reassuring sign that longer flights on this aircraft will be comfortable.
The seats themselves are noticeably more comfortable than those in the older Airbus fleet. They are softer, providing a genuinely pleasant sitting experience. One feature that caught our attention was the headrests, which have adjustable edges. This is great news for anyone who likes to sleep on flights, as they can adjust the headrest to keep their head in place and avoid the awkwardness of accidentally leaning on a neighbor’s shoulder—unless, of course, you’re hoping to meet someone sitting next to you, in which case, you might pretend the headrest feature doesn’t exist!
Another thoughtful addition is the mobile phone holders integrated into the seats. These will definitely come in handy for passengers who want to watch a series or movie during the flight. No more struggling to balance your phone on the tray table or holding it awkwardly in your hand.
One of the most exciting innovations on this aircraft is the onboard WiFi. Croatia Airlines generously provided all passengers with free internet access during both the inaugural flight from Zagreb to Split and the return flight to Zagreb. Passengers had access to the highest available bandwidth, allowing us to send photos and browse the web seamlessly. And we must admit, we took full advantage of it, sending plenty of photos and enjoying the opportunity to surf the internet mid-flight. The only thing we didn’t test was streaming, but that’s something we’ll save for another occasion.
Another very useful thing is the ability to charge your mobile devices. We tested how it works and managed to charge the mobile phone from 18% to 80% in about half an hour, which is excellent and very useful.
One of the standout features of this aircraft is its windows. If you’re accustomed to the small windows of older planes, where capturing a decent photo can be a challenge, you’ll be amazed by the A220’s nearly twice-as-large windows. It’s a detail worth noting when you find yourself aboard this aircraft—it truly enhances the flying experience.
We also learned that an Airbus pilot was on board alongside the Croatia Airlines pilot, providing oversight as part of the training process. Although Croatia Airlines pilots completed their A220 training before the aircraft’s arrival in Zagreb and are fully qualified to operate these planes, initial flights require supervision to ensure everything goes smoothly. This should put to rest any concerns about whether Croatia’s pilots are equipped to handle the new aircraft. Everything is being conducted according to the highest safety standards, ensuring passengers can relax and enjoy a comfortable flight on this state-of-the-art plane.
As we prepared for takeoff, we noticed that two Croatia Airlines aircraft from the existing fleet—a familiar Airbus and a De Havilland Canada Dash 8—were parked nearby. It was a symbolic moment, seeing the new A220 poised to replace these older models. The future of those older planes remains uncertain; they might find a new home with another airline or end up in a desert, waiting for better days.
As the cabin crew briefed us on safety protocols, we listened attentively. Soon, the engines roared to life. The new sounds might take some getting used to—they can seem a bit unusual at first—but rest assured, it’s just the air passing through the engines, creating those unfamiliar noises. Within seconds, everything settled into a smooth rhythm, and the aircraft was ready for a perfect flight.
We have to admit that the engines are really quiet. During taxiing, take-off and flight itself, they can hardly be heard. This will improve the cabin experience for passengers.
We took off on direction 04, i.e. we took off towards Rugvica. After takeoff, we made a right turn and headed in the direction of Split. The take-off went smoothly and there was no major turbulence. After a few minutes we were able to walk around the cabin. The cabin crew immediately started distributing food and drinks.
We were pleasantly surprised to receive an interesting package during the flight. Inside, we found an assortment of local delicacies: sliced sausages with rosemary, biscuits made with chestnuts, and crackers flavored with butternut squash and sage. The sausages were particularly delightful, served in a bowl with thinly sliced portions. The chestnut biscuits offered a unique twist, especially appealing to those who appreciate the rich, earthy flavor of chestnuts. The crackers, though a bit harder, had an intriguing flavor profile thanks to the sage. While the portions weren’t large, I sincerely commend Croatia Airlines for their effort to showcase local products and cuisine. It’s a refreshing change from the typical airline offerings, like standard sandwiches or small chocolate bars—items you can find just about anywhere. Instead, passengers had the opportunity to sample traditional Croatian flavors, which adds a special touch to the flying experience.
Though the era of large in-flight meals may be behind us, it’s the little surprises like these that stand out. Additionally, the meal was served with metal cutlery and a glass tumbler, enhancing the overall experience. To top it off, we received cookies featuring the A220 logo—a thoughtful gesture to commemorate the inaugural flight.
As we flew over Krka National Park and approached Šibenik, the sea came into view. From there, we made a turn towards Split, and it became clear that we were preparing to land on Runway 23 at Split Airport. We passed over Šolta and had a stunning view of Drvenice and the smaller islands surrounding Šolta.
Landing from Runway 23 at Split Airport is a unique experience. As we flew over Split, the runway appeared at a 90-degree angle, necessitating a continuous turn until we were aligned for landing. The view of the beaches in Kaštela and the densely populated areas added to the impressive scene. This approach reinforced the confidence that Croatia’s pilots are more than capable of handling this new aircraft.
The landing was flawless. After touching down, we taxied to the first exit where water cannons awaited us. This celebratory “water salute” is reserved for special occasions, and it was clear from the number of Split Airport staff capturing the moment that this was indeed a significant event. Once the plane came to a halt, passengers disembarked while we remained at the aircraft to take in the festivities. We mingled with other guests, listened to some speeches, and enjoyed the unique occasion before it was time to head back to Zagreb.
We thoroughly enjoyed this remarkable trip and extend our heartfelt thanks to Croatia Airlines for the invitation. As we conclude, we wish Croatia Airlines the best of luck with their new fleet. May it bring many successful flights and a superior travel experience to countless passengers.
We also want to express our gratitude to the crew, who maintained a great mood throughout and provided excellent service. We especially appreciate their willingness to pose for a photo with the two AvioRadar reporters.
