United Airlines to Launch Historic Nonstop Newark-Split Flights in 2026
This first-ever direct air link between the United States and Split eliminates European layovers, significantly reducing travel time for over 19,000 seasonal passengers and boosting Croatia’s high-value tourism sector.
United Airlines has officially confirmed the launch of a historic nonstop service between Newark Liberty International Airport (EWR) and Split Airport (SPU), scheduled to begin on April 30, 2026.
This milestone marks the first time a major U.S. carrier will provide a direct scheduled connection to Croatia’s Dalmatian coast, a region that has seen a 16% surge in American visitors over the past year.
The seasonal route will operate three times per week until September 5, 2026, bridging a critical gap in transatlantic connectivity that previously forced travelers to navigate complex connections through European hubs like Frankfurt, Munich, or London.
The development is more than just a convenience for holidaymakers; it represents a strategic shift in international aviation toward high-yield, secondary European markets.
For travelers, the direct flight slashes total journey times from an average of 15 hours to approximately 8.5 to 10 hours.
With the United States now firmly established as one of Croatia’s top five source markets, this route is expected to generate significant economic ripple effects, particularly for the luxury travel and maritime sectors centered in Split and the neighboring Adriatic islands.
Direct Newark to Split Flight Schedule and Seasonal Logistics
The new service, operating under flight numbers UA305 (Newark to Split) and UA306 (Split to Newark), is timed to capture the peak of the Mediterranean summer.
Flights will depart Newark on Tuesdays, Thursdays, and Saturdays at 5:00 PM local time, arriving in Split at 7:45 AM the following morning. Return flights are scheduled for Wednesdays, Fridays, and Sundays at 10:00 AM, touching down in New Jersey by 2:05 PM.
This specific rotation is designed to harmonize with the "Saturday-to-Saturday" booking cycle dominant in the Dalmatian yacht charter and villa rental markets.
By arriving on Friday or Saturday morning, American travelers can transition seamlessly to ferry terminals or private marinas located just minutes from Split Airport.
Aviation analysts note that the mid-week frequencies also cater to "shoulder season" travelers—those seeking the milder weather of May and June—which aligns with Croatia's national strategy to extend the tourism season beyond the crowded months of July and August.
Premium-Heavy Boeing 767-300ER Configuration
United will deploy a specialized, high-premium version of the Boeing 767-300ER for the Split route.
Unlike standard wide-body aircraft that prioritize high-density economy seating, this configuration features only 167 seats, creating one of the most premium-dense layouts in the carrier's international fleet.
The cabin includes 46 Polaris business class suites, each providing direct aisle access and 180-degree flat-bed seats.
Additionally, the aircraft offers 22 Premium Plus seats (a dedicated premium economy cabin), 43 Economy Plus seats with extra legroom, and a small standard economy section of just 56 seats.
This focus on premium seating suggests that United is targeting affluent leisure travelers and business executives who are willing to pay a higher fare for the luxury of a nonstop flight.
Economic Impact on Dalmatian Tourism and Island Connectivity
The introduction of a direct link to Split is poised to transform the tourism landscape of southern Croatia. Historically, Dubrovnik has been the primary gateway for Americans, but the addition of Split provides a second, more central entry point to the Adriatic.
Split serves as the "beating heart" of Dalmatian transport, offering immediate access to high-demand islands such as Hvar, Brač, and Vis, which are increasingly popular with North American travelers.
According to the Croatian National Tourist Board (HTZ), American tourists are among the highest per-capita spenders in the country, often staying longer and visiting more diverse locations than their European counterparts.
The 2026 work program for the HTZ has allocated over €57 million for international promotion, with a specific focus on air connectivity.
Analysts predict that this direct route alone will facilitate nearly 20,000 arrivals over the summer season, potentially injecting millions of euros into local hospitality, gastronomy, and cultural heritage sectors.
Part of a Wider 2026 European Expansion Strategy
The Newark–Split route is the centerpiece of a broader European expansion by United Airlines for the 2026 season. Alongside Split, the carrier has announced new nonstop services to:
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Bari, Italy: Connecting the U.S. to the Puglia region.
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Glasgow, Scotland: Re-establishing a direct link for the first time since 2019.
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Santiago de Compostela, Spain: Creating the first-ever regular transatlantic service to the Galicia region.
This aggressive expansion into secondary markets underscores United's strategy to become the dominant U.S. "flag carrier" for Europe, now serving 46 cities across the continent.
By identifying "underserved" destinations with strong cultural and leisure appeal, United is differentiating itself from competitors who remain focused on major hubs like Paris or Rome.
This "boutique route" strategy leverages smaller wide-body aircraft like the 767 to make direct service to cities like Split both operationally feasible and highly profitable.
Questions People Are Asking
Is the Newark–Split flight year-round or seasonal?
The Newark–Split nonstop is a seasonal service, operating from spring through early fall. Travel demand to Croatia is highest during the summer months.
Is this the only nonstop flight from the U.S. to Split?
Yes. United Airlines is currently the only U.S. carrier offering nonstop flights to Split. Other airlines serve the route through connections in European cities.
Is flying nonstop to Split faster than connecting through Europe?
Yes. A nonstop flight to Split saves several hours compared with connecting through major European airports and reduces the risk of missed connections or delayed luggage.
Can I fly to Split with American Airlines or Delta?
American Airlines and Delta do not offer nonstop flights to Split. Travelers can book flights through partner airlines, usually connecting in cities such as London, Madrid, Rome, or Paris.
Will nonstop flights to Split continue in future years?
Airlines review seasonal routes each year. Continued service depends on demand, and no long-term schedule beyond the current season has been announced.
How The Newark–Split Nonstop Changes Travel To Croatia
Nonstop flights between Newark and Split give U.S. travelers a direct way to reach Croatia’s Dalmatian coast for the first time. Previously, most trips required connections through major European airports, adding time and increasing the risk of delays during the summer season.
The new route shortens travel time and allows passengers to arrive in Split without changing planes. For many travelers, this makes Split a practical arrival point rather than a destination reached after flying into another European city.
United Airlines is currently the only U.S. carrier flying nonstop to Croatia in 2026. American Airlines does not operate direct flights to Split and now serves the country through partner connections via London or Madrid. Delta Air Lines briefly flew nonstop to Dubrovnik in 2021 but has since focused on larger European hubs.
For travelers, the main benefit is simplicity. Flying directly into Split reduces travel time, limits connection-related delays, and brings visitors closer to coastal destinations from the start of their trip.
As passenger numbers at Split Airport continue to grow, the success of the Newark–Split route will help determine whether nonstop U.S.–Croatia flights become a regular option beyond peak summer travel.
