Europe's first modern seaplane network one step closer in Croatia

European aviation history moves one step closer, as authorities confirm downtown Split as a key location for Europe's first modern seaplane network. It has been a 13-year battle with Croatian bureaucracy, but the announcement on January 17, 2013 that a concession had been granted in the city of Split for the hydroplane project of European Coastal Airlines ensures that the first modern scheduled seaplane service in Europe will begin in Croatia as early as May this year.

Croatia summer holidays guide: 2014

Planning a holiday to Croatia? Read our guide to the best regions, with expert advice on Istria, the Dalmatian Coast, the cities Dubrovnik, Split, Zadar and Zagreb, the islands, including Hvar, and the national parks. Croatia is now definitely “in”, with some 400,000 arrivals from the UK in 2013, up 25 per cent on 2012. The newest member of the EU, all but forgotten for almost a decade following the war (1991–1995) that saw the break-up of Yugoslavia, is firmly back on the summer destinations map. And with its stunning coastline, unspoilt nature (including eight national parks) and beautifully-preserved centuries-old harbour towns, it offers a less commercial take on the sun, sea and sand holidays you would expect in Greece or Spain. So where exactly should you head for?