I was hoping to get to fly one of the airline’s new A220s but we had a 25-year-old A319 instead. At check in it was apparent the flight would be full, and it was packed with schoolchildren. I remember reading here on the site how Croatia Airlines even has dozens of charters to Girona around this time of year because there are organised trips for schoolchildren. In any case, it was interesting to see that even at check in all the children (there must have been close to a hundred of them) were sick, coughing like crazy, blowing their noses…

After checking in I passed security without much hassle and headed to the gate. We were going to be delayed as the incoming flight from Zagreb was late.

Upon boarding we were greeted by the crew, all of whome were wearing N95 face masks, which was interesting to see on a European airline post-Covid. It seemed to be a wise decision considering 90% of the passengers were visibly sick and unwell (and it seems the crew knew what to expect).

The cabin looked relatively well maintained with exception of the overhead screens, some of which were flickering for the duration of the safety demonstration. The seats themselves were fine.

As mentioned, the flight was full. We took off around 55 minutes behind schedule. Shortly after departure the crew served a small pack of crackers, which also featured Croatia Airlines branding on the packet, a napkin and a choice between mineral and sparkling water. This was free of charge. I forgot to take a photo of the crackers, but the flavour was inspired by a region in Croatia (sorry I forgot which one). It tasted good. There was also a SkyShop menu in the seat pocket, but I didn’t see anyone order anything, although, as mentioned, most of the passengers were teens returning from a school trip.

I enjoyed reading through Croatia Airlines’ in-flight magazine, which was also in the seat pocket. There were some really nice articles and images of Croatia. The magazine, which seems to be published on a seasonal basis (summer, winter, spring, autumn) was big. The service itself, with the crackers and water was pretty much on par with most other airlines on intra-European flights.

We made up some of the delay and arrived in Zagreb 35 minutes behind schedule. I spent the night in Zagreb and continued my way for a few days’ holidays in Opatija, which was lovely. Unfortunately, a few days later I got a cold, likely from the flight as the passenger next to me, in front of me and directly behind me were all sick. Of course, this is not Croatia Airlines’ fault but just putting it out there as to what you might expect flying this route that time of year.

Overall, I can’t say there was anything bad about the flight. It was an average experience similar on most European airlines nowadays. Although must say the price was above average compared to most airlines for a flight of this distance.

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