The inaugural flight of United Airlines' new seasonal direct service between New York and Split has touched down at Split Airport. The route will operate three times a week and has the potential to become a year-round connection in the future, according to CE Report citing HINA.
Josip Ćorić, Director of Split Airport, hailed the launch as a historic milestone, noting its coincidence with the airport's 60th anniversary. He stressed that this direct link underscores the strategic importance of the airport as a primary gateway to the Dalmatian region. This year, Split Airport serves 86 direct destinations across 26 countries.
Patrick Quayle, Senior Vice President of Global Network Planning at United Airlines, stated that the new route offers American travelers easier access to Split and broadens the airline's network in Croatia, complementing the earlier launch of a direct New York–Dubrovnik service.
Tomislav Mihotić, State Secretary at the Ministry of the Sea, Transport and Infrastructure, described the launch as a significant advancement in connectivity between Croatia and the US. He believes it will enhance the visibility of Croatia's Adriatic coast among American tourists, boost tourism and the local economy in Dalmatia, and strengthen business ties and cultural exchange. The route is expected to attract American visitors for summer vacations and events such as Ultra.
Monika Udovičić, State Secretary at the Ministry of Tourism and Sport, called the route a major boost for Croatian tourism.
US Ambassador to Croatia Nicole McGraw emphasized the importance of the direct service, anticipating it will increase the number of American visitors beyond last year's 850,000. She added that the route will facilitate travel for Croatian national team fans to the FIFA World Cup co-hosted by the US. The Ambassador expressed confidence that the seasonal service could become year-round and announced a celebration of the 250th anniversary of American independence in Split this summer, in collaboration with the Ultra festival, with many guests expected to arrive via the new direct flight.
Source: www.cereport.eu
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