Bratislava International Airport expands its routes

Tuesday, January 28, 2025

Bratislava International Airport is set to expand its operations significantly, with new routes poised to increase passenger numbers by 1.1 million annually. This growth is driven by a $100 million investment from Ryanair, alongside additional contributions from Norwegian and Pegasus Airlines, supported by the Slovak government. The expansion underscores Slovakia’s commitment to enhancing its air connectivity and supporting economic growth.

Ryanair Investment Boosts Connectivity

Ryanair, Europe’s largest low-cost carrier, will launch five new routes from Bratislava to Bari, Gdansk, Milan Malpensa, Skiathos, and Zadar in the summer of 2025. These additions will grow the airport’s capacity by 25%, creating 1,000 local jobs, including 90 highly paid aviation roles. The carrier will also add a third aircraft to its Bratislava-based fleet, enhancing operational efficiency and passenger options.

Dusan Novota, CEO of Bratislava Airport, highlighted the significance of the partnership: “After intensive negotiations with Ryanair, we managed to expand the network of routes from Bratislava. Passengers will now have access to Milan, Gdansk, Bari, Skiathos, and Zadar, further enriching travel options for both Slovak holidaymakers and inbound tourists.”

Norwegian Revives Copenhagen Route

Norwegian Airlines will reintroduce a direct route from Bratislava to Copenhagen Airport, starting June 28, 2025, with two weekly flights on Tuesdays and Saturdays. This route, last operated a decade ago, reconnects Slovakian travelers with the Nordic region, fulfilling the demand for a vital link between the two areas.

Pegasus Airlines Expands Popular Routes

Pegasus Airlines continues to strengthen its presence at Bratislava International Airport. In 2024, the carrier introduced a direct route to Antalya, quickly becoming one of the airport’s most sought-after destinations alongside Istanbul, London, Milan, Hurghada, and Skopje. Istanbul remains a popular route, with three weekly flights facilitating travel between Slovakia and Turkey’s bustling cultural hub.

Passenger Growth and Strategic Goals

In 2024, Bratislava International Airport recorded 1,948,008 passengers on arrivals and departures. With the new routes and investments, the airport aims to surpass this figure in 2025, positioning itself as a competitive alternative to Vienna International Airport. The Slovak government’s National Aviation Strategy emphasizes the importance of enhancing air connectivity to boost tourism, trade, and economic development.

A Gateway to Slovakia’s Capital

Bratislava International Airport’s expanding network aligns with Slovakia’s broader efforts to promote tourism and increase accessibility.

Key routes to Bari, Zadar, and Gdansk provide travelers with new opportunities to explore Europe, while connections to Istanbul, Antalya, and London strengthen the airport’s appeal as a gateway to the Orient and beyond.