Dubrovnik Emerges as Potential American Airlines Destination

American Airlines is considering Dubrovnik, Croatia, as a potential new international leisure destination. High-level discussions have taken place between Dubrovnik Airport officials and representatives from American Airlines, specifically at Chicago O’Hare International Airport (ORD). Currently, the city is served by United Airlines, which operates a single nonstop route to the New York area. However, Dubrovnik is keen to expand its connections to the United States, especially as it continues to experience record numbers in tourism and passenger arrivals.

Dubrovnik has become increasingly popular due to its historic walled Old Town and its connection to the immensely popular television series, Game of Thrones. The city is now recognized as one of Europe’s premier coastal destinations, attracting millions of visitors each year. According to local tourism statistics, Dubrovnik is projected to welcome approximately 1.35 million arrivals and 4.2 million overnight stays in 2024, a significant increase that underscores its growing appeal.

American Airlines’ Strategic Expansion Plans

American Airlines is currently focusing on summer route expansion across the Atlantic, with plans to introduce several new leisure destinations from hubs including Philadelphia, Dallas-Fort Worth, and Chicago. This expansion aligns with their strategy to utilize the new Airbus A321XLR aircraft, which is particularly suited for long-and-thin markets that do not support larger widebody jets. The A321XLR’s configuration allows for around 155 seats and a range of approximately 4,700 nautical miles, making it an ideal choice for routes to Dubrovnik.

Previously, American Airlines operated a seasonal route between Philadelphia International Airport (PHL) and Dubrovnik, which recorded nearly 18,000 passengers in 2019. The route achieved an impressive average load factor exceeding 80%, indicating strong demand. With the Croatian airport actively seeking a second U.S. route, American Airlines is in a favorable position to re-establish this connection or create a new route from Chicago.

Dubrovnik: A Growing Tourism Hub

Dubrovnik is a UNESCO World Heritage Site known for its stunning medieval architecture, including Gothic, Renaissance, and Baroque buildings. The city has transformed into a pop-culture landmark, particularly following its role as the fictional King’s Landing in Game of Thrones. This has attracted a surge of tourists eager to explore its historical sites.

Local authorities in Dubrovnik are now focusing on sustainable tourism to manage the increasing number of visitors. Strategies include implementing caps on accommodation in the Old Town and enhancing management practices to prevent overtourism from undermining the city’s rich heritage. This approach aims to attract higher-spending tourists while maintaining the city’s unique character.

The rising interest in Dubrovnik also coincides with a broader trend of increasing U.S. visitors to Croatia. The country’s national tourism strategy emphasizes long-haul markets, particularly those in the U.S., as vital for growth. United Airlines is expected to bolster its presence in Croatia by launching new seasonal flights from Newark to Split, highlighting the demand for direct connections to the region.

With limited competition from other U.S. carriers—currently only United Airlines operates a seasonal service to Dubrovnik—American Airlines has a unique opportunity to tap into a market with high demand and limited options. The potential addition of a new American Airlines route would significantly enhance connectivity between the United States and Croatia, particularly during the peak summer season.

In summary, Dubrovnik is emerging as an attractive destination for American Airlines as it seeks profitable leisure markets that fit within its operational model. With a mix of historical appeal, cultural significance, and rising tourist demand, Dubrovnik could soon see American Airlines return to its skies, further connecting this stunning Adriatic city to the vast U.S. market. The airline’s decision is anticipated to be influenced by both strategic considerations and the potential for significant passenger traffic.