United Airlines has announced a new seasonal nonstop service between Newark Liberty International Airport and Split, Croatia, set to launch on April 30, 2026. The flight will operate three times a week on a Boeing 767-300ER, making it the only nonstop service between the United States and Split.

This new route is part of United’s Summer 2026 expansion, which also includes new service from Washington Dulles to Bari, Italy; Glasgow, Scotland; Santiago de Compostela, Spain; and Reykjavik, Iceland. The airline has described this route as the first nonstop flight between the U. S. and Split, providing travelers with a new way to access one of Croatia’s most popular coastal regions.

Split, known for its historic sites, beautiful beaches, and ferry routes, is a popular entry point for travelers looking to explore the Dalmatian Coast and its surrounding islands. The city is home to the iconic Diocletian’s Palace, and from there, travelers can easily reach other popular destinations such as Hvar, Brač, Vis, Korčula, and Šolta by ferry or catamaran.

This new route also offers travelers an alternative to the popular destination of Dubrovnik. United already operates seasonal nonstop service between Newark/New York and Dubrovnik, but the new Split flight expands the airline’s access to Croatia during the busy summer season. This is especially beneficial for travelers planning to explore the middle Dalmatian coast and its nearby islands, as Split offers a more central base compared to Dubrovnik.

Croatia is experiencing a surge in tourism, with 15. 5 million tourist arrivals and 79. 2 million overnight stays recorded in 2025, a one percent increase from the previous year. This record-breaking year is a testament to the country’s growing popularity as a Mediterranean destination, offering a diverse range of experiences including coastal landscapes, historic cities, national parks, island-hopping, and food.

For black travelers, Croatia’s rise in visibility is reflective of a wider shift in travel behavior. As more travelers seek destinations that offer a combination of rest, cultural depth, and unique experiences, Croatia has become an attractive option. MMGY Travel Intelligence reported that U. S. black leisure travelers took over 184 million trips in 2023, spending a total of $145 billion on travel. This market’s influence is evident in the travel industry, with Croatia becoming more visible in the black travel community.

However, travelers should plan carefully when visiting Croatia during the busy summer season. This can bring higher hotel rates, crowded old towns, busy ferries, and limited availability on popular island routes. The new United flight makes the first step easier for travelers, but it is still important to compare fares, check seasonal flight schedules, confirm ferry times before booking island stays, and consider the best itinerary options.

In conclusion, the new United Airlines flight to Split, Croatia provides travelers with a more direct