Order for 15 Jets Reinforces Ties with Airbus

Croatia Airlines, the country's flag carrier, has signed a deal for the purchase of 6 A220-300 aircraft.

In addition to the purchase, the airline plans to lease 9 A220s, bringing the total to 15 bound for Croatia. The A220s will replace aging legacy aircraft throughout the company fleet, taking advantage of new-generation upgrades and cutting operational costs with increased efficiencies.  

"Today’s signing of a contract for the purchase of state-of-the-art Airbus aircraft is a very special moment for all of us at Croatia Airlines,” said Jasmin Baji?, CEO and president of the board at Croatia Airlines. "It marks the beginning of a new period of aviation, a new period in the life of Croatia Airlines, a new period for our passengers, and a new period for Croatia’s tourism and economy as a whole." 

“We are thrilled to add Croatia Airlines as a new A220 customer,” said Christian Scherer, Airbus Chief Commercial Officer. The purchase represents an expansion of the Croat fleet into a smaller, more nimble aircraft than the company's usual Airbus fare. "The A220 is ideally suited to Croatia's aviation needs, providing operational flexibility and efficiency allowing its airline to pursue its ambition for both regional and international connectivity without compromising on any aspect, be it passenger comfort or trip and seat cost economics."

Once upon a time, Croatia Airlines operated a motley fleet, with everything from British Aerospace and Hawker-Siddeley to ex-Lufthansa Boeing 737s. Now, the company has greatly strengthened its Airbus ties, operating a fleet of 7 single-aisle aircraft from the A320 Family.

FMI: www.croatiaairlines.com