Croatia Airport News: Over 130 Passengers Safe After Runway Incident in Split
Croatia Airport News
A Croatia Airlines aircraft carrying more than 130 passengers was forced to abort take-off at Split Airport in Croatia after a runway incident triggered emergency safety procedures. Despite the tense situation, all passengers and crew members were safely evacuated, and no injuries were reported.
The incident involved a Croatia Airlines Airbus A220-300 operating a scheduled flight from Split to Frankfurt, Germany. According to airline officials, the aircraft experienced a problem during its take-off roll, prompting pilots to immediately stop the aircraft in line with standard aviation safety procedures.
Initial reports indicate that the aircraft veered slightly off the runway and entered a grassy area near the edge of the airstrip before coming to a complete stop. Airport authorities confirmed that the aircraft sustained minor damage after reportedly striking runway lights and airport signage during the aborted take-off. Emergency response teams quickly arrived at the scene to assist passengers and inspect the aircraft.
There were around 130 passengers and several crew members onboard at the time of the incident. Following the emergency stop, passengers were safely escorted back to the airport terminal, where airline officials arranged assistance and alternative travel plans. Croatia Airlines stated that passenger safety remains its top priority and confirmed full cooperation with airport authorities and aviation investigators.
The incident temporarily affected operations at Split Airport, leading to delays and the diversion of some incoming flights to nearby airports. Technical teams later worked to remove the aircraft from the runway area and restore normal airport operations as quickly as possible.
Aviation experts say aborted take-offs are uncommon but essential safety measures used when pilots identify potential risks during acceleration on the runway. Aircraft are equipped with advanced braking and safety systems that allow pilots to stop take-off procedures safely even at high speeds if technical issues or unsafe conditions are detected.
Authorities have not yet confirmed the exact cause of the incident, and a formal investigation has now been launched. Investigators are expected to examine cockpit recordings, aircraft systems, runway conditions, and weather data to determine what led to the runway excursion.
The Airbus A220 involved in the incident is part of Croatia Airlines’ modern fleet used for both domestic and international operations. Aviation analysts noted that the crew’s quick response and adherence to emergency procedures played a major role in ensuring the safety of all passengers onboard.
While the incident caused temporary disruption and concern among travelers, officials emphasized that emergency systems functioned as intended and that the situation was handled professionally by both the flight crew and airport emergency services.
