Zadar Airport (ZAD/LDZD) – Your Essential Gateway to Croatia’s Stunning Dalmatian Coast
Zadar Airport, officially designated ZAD (IATA) and LDZD (ICAO), is a critical aviation hub strategically located in Zemunik Donji, approximately 8 km (5 miles) east of the historic Zadar city center. As the fourth busiest airport in Croatia, it is the primary gateway for millions of tourists accessing the spectacular Dalmatian region, including the ancient city of Zadar, the enchanting Kornati Islands National Park, and the Krka National Park.
The airport is globally recognized for its unique operational capability, holding the distinction of being the only airport in Croatia equipped with two fully operational runways, which enhances its capacity and reliability, especially during the peak summer season.
General Airport Information and Latest Traffic Data
Zadar Airport continues to demonstrate robust growth, cementing its role in connecting Central Europe with the Adriatic coast.
- Location: Zemunik Donji, Zadar (44° 5′ 52” N, 15° 21′ 24” E).
- Strategic Importance: A vital link for tourism, serving the North and Central Dalmatia region.
- Latest Traffic Update (H1 2025): The airport has handled 550,813 passengers in the first half of 2025, demonstrating strong recovery and growth, with a notable 9% increase in passenger volume in June 2025 compared to the previous year.
Terminal Facilities and Enhanced Passenger Services
The airport operates from a single, modern terminal which underwent significant refurbishment in 2019, covering approximately 20,000 m². The focus remains on providing a swift, comfortable, and efficient travel experience.
- Amenities: Passengers benefit from free, high-speed Wi-Fi access throughout the terminal, various cafes and bars serving local and international refreshments, and a large Duty-Free outlet offering popular goods.
- Accessibility: The facility is fully compliant with international standards for passengers with reduced mobility (PRM), offering dedicated services and assistance points.
- Accommodation: Several high-quality hotels, such as Hotel Porto and Hotel Donat, are conveniently situated within a short distance of the airport, perfect for early departures or late arrivals.
Major Development Project: Expansion for Future Capacity
To future-proof its operations and accommodate rising passenger demand, Zadar Airport has embarked on an ambitious, multi-million-euro expansion project. The comprehensive renovation, budgeted at approximately €15.3 million, will significantly transform the airport’s infrastructure.
- New Departure Terminal: The core of the project is the construction of a brand-new departure terminal building, which will seamlessly connect and integrate with the existing facility to create a single, high-capacity functional unit.
- Capacity Boost: Upon completion, scheduled before the commencement of the 2026 summer flight schedule, the new facility will feature enhanced services including:
- Nine modern departure gates (exits).
- Two new baggage carousels.
- A state-of-the-art baggage sorting and handling system.
- An increased capacity to handle up to 1,480 people simultaneously.
Airlines and Extensive Destination Network
Zadar Airport has established itself as a critical operating base for major low-cost carriers, driving record traffic and connectivity.
- Key Carriers: The airport hosts flights from major airlines including Ryanair (its dominant operator), Lufthansa, Eurowings, Croatia Airlines, Vueling Airlines, and LOT Polish Airlines, among others.
- Route Expansion: For the Summer 2025 season, the airport reached a new milestone, connecting the Dalmatian region to an impressive total of 51 destinations across Europe. Ryanair alone commands a staggering 82.8% share of the airport’s capacity, offering new connections, including previously mentioned routes to Scandinavia and other key European markets like Berlin, London, Vienna, Dublin, and Warsaw.
- Seasonal Focus: Charter traffic sees a substantial increase during the summer, specifically connecting Zadar to vital tourist markets in Italy, Germany, and Poland.
Ground Transportation Options for Seamless Transfers
Travelers have multiple efficient and cost-effective options for reaching the Zadar city center and popular surrounding destinations like Novalja, Šibenik, or Split.
- Airport Bus Shuttle: A highly reliable shuttle bus service provides rapid connection to the Zadar city center and the main bus station in approximately 20 minutes. Ticket prices are extremely affordable, currently priced at around 3 EUR.
- Taxi Services: A dedicated taxi rank is situated directly outside the terminal exit. The journey to the city center typically takes just 15 minutes, with average fares ranging from 15 to 20 EUR.
- Car Rental: All leading international car rental companies, including Avis, Hertz, Sixt, Europcar, and local providers, maintain service desks inside the terminal, allowing for immediate collection and drop-off.
- Parking: The airport provides ample short-term and long-term parking facilities, offering secure and competitively priced options directly adjacent to the terminal building.
Official Contact and Information
For the most up-to-date flight schedules, services, and official inquiries, please refer to the primary contact information:
- Official Website: www.zadar-airport.hr
- Address: PO Box 367, 23000 Zadar, CROATIA
- Telephone (General Info): +385 (0)23 205800
- Fax: +385 (0)23 205809