Pula Airport eyes new routes and domestic links

Pula Airport is seeking to strengthen its domestic air connectivity, particularly with Split and Dubrovnik, as part of Croatia's upcoming Public Service Obligation (PSO) programme. The airport's newly appointed acting Managing Director, Marko Ražem, said improving links between Croatia's coastal airports and the country's interior would be among his priorities, with a particular emphasis on developing sustainable year-round services. Speaking to the local “Glas Istre” newspaper, Mr Ražem noted there was considerable potential for domestic flights beyond seasonal tourist demand, including business, administrative and personal travel. He highlighted the lengthy road journey between Pula and southern Croatia as an opportunity for air transport to provide a more practical alternative.

The airport intends to present its case for improved domestic connectivity as Croatia prepares its next Public Service Obligation (PSO) tender, which has been delayed. The new four-year programme was originally due to commence at the end of March 2026, but the government failed to launch the tender on time, resulting in a temporary suspension of several domestic routes. The tender is now expected to be launched in early 2027, approximately nine months behind schedule.

The airport is also targeting a return to its pre-pandemic passenger traffic levels by 2028. Pula handled approximately 777.000 travellers in 2019, compared to 554.000 last year. Mr Ražem said the airport was pursuing a strategy focused on diversifying its airline partners rather than relying heavily on a single low cost carrier. Its preferred traffic mix would comprise approximately 30% to 35% low cost operations, 35% traditional airlines and 30% charter services. Prior to the pandemic, Pula was served by 36 airlines offering flights to 67 destinations. The airport believes it can restore a comparable level of connectivity by the end of 2028, provided its development plans are successfully implemented. 

The airport is currently negotiating with several airlines, including low cost, legacy and charter operators, with some discussions reportedly at an advanced stage. Particular attention is being paid to reducing seasonality and encouraging services outside the peak summer months through cooperation with local tourism stakeholders and incentive measures. On the infrastructure front, new computed tomography security screening equipment is expected to become operational during the first half of December, allowing passengers to keep electronic devices and liquids in their hand luggage, subject to applicable security regulations. The longer-term development programme also envisages a phased modernisation of the passenger terminal.