Ruđer Bošković Airport in Dubrovnik recorded remarkable success in 2024, with a record number of passengers and a significant increase in flights. This impressive growth confirms Dubrovnik’s importance as a tourist destination while also highlighting its growing role as a hub for business events and conferences. With new routes, airlines, and infrastructure plans, Dubrovnik is ready to welcome international business travellers and provide them with a top-tier experience.
Record Passenger and Flight Numbers in 2024
In 2024, Ruđer Bošković Airport hosted a total of 2,954,934 passengers, marking a 23% increase compared to the previous year. Additionally, 25,546 aircraft operations were recorded, representing an 18% growth.
The arrival of Ryanair in March 2024 and the establishment of its base in April had an immediate positive impact on passenger numbers, particularly in the pre-season. Many other airlines also contributed to the upward trend during the summer season, enabling a significant increase in passengers and operations during both the pre-season and post-season. This growth aligns with Dubrovnik’s strategic goal of developing sustainable tourism, reducing seasonality, and attracting visitors year-round.
Expectations for 2025: More Flights, New Destinations
According to airline announcements, 2025 is expected to bring a further increase in flights to Western and Central Europe, with a special focus on the United Kingdom, France, Germany, Italy, and Scandinavia. Dubrovnik will be connected to more than 70 international destinations via over 45 scheduled airlines.
During the most extensive winter flight schedule to date, lasting until the end of March, Ruđer Bošković Airport connects Dubrovnik with key European cities such as London, Vienna, Brussels, Warsaw, Barcelona, and Frankfurt. Starting in March, the number of flights to Madrid, Istanbul, Dublin, London, Manchester, and Paris will increase.
In 2025, Ryanair will connect Dubrovnik with three new destinations—Marseille, Katowice, and Gothenburg—with two weekly flights during the summer schedule. EasyJet is introducing a route to Bordeaux with two weekly flights, while Swiss Air will link Dubrovnik with Zurich with five weekly rotations.
A particularly significant development is the increase in flights by United Airlines, which will operate daily between Dubrovnik and New York from early May to late September, with three weekly rotations in October. Ruđer Bošković Airport remains the only airport in Croatia with a direct connection to the United States, a crucial advantage for business travellers from the U.S.
Infrastructure Investments and Future Plans
In addition to increasing flights and passenger numbers, Dubrovnik Airport is also focused on enhancing service quality and infrastructure. Last year, the airport completed its Master Plan, outlining strategic guidelines and objectives for the period from 2025 to 2045.
For 2025, priorities include ensuring high-quality services that meet security, safety, and technological standards in air travel. The implementation of new technologies and business improvements aligned with sustainable development goals will also continue. A key focus remains on increasing traffic during the pre-season, post-season, and winter schedule.
With all these developments, Ruđer Bošković Airport in Dubrovnik is well-prepared to welcome business travellers, offering improved connectivity to major global hubs, top-tier service, and continuous infrastructure investments. As a result, Dubrovnik is further strengthening its position as a leading destination for congresses and incentive travel, providing an outstanding experience for all visitors.
