British Airways Suspends Zagreb Flights for 2025–26 Winter Season

Key Takeaways

• British Airways suspends London Heathrow–Zagreb flights from Oct 26, 2025 to Mar 28, 2026.
• Croatia Airlines offers 3 weekly Heathrow flights; Ryanair provides 10 weekly Stansted flights during winter.
• Passengers must seek refunds or rebooking; direct winter flights remain but with reduced capacity.

British Airways Suspends Zagreb Flights for Winter 2025–26: What Travelers Need to Know

British Airways has announced it will suspend its direct flights between London Heathrow and Zagreb for the entire 2025–26 winter season. This decision, confirmed on July 1, 2025, marks a major shift for travelers who rely on this route for business, tourism, and family visits. The suspension will last from October 26, 2025, through March 28, 2026, with service set to resume as a summer seasonal route from March 29, 2026. This is the first time since 2012 that British Airways will not operate year-round flights between these two capitals.

This change affects a wide range of people, including frequent flyers, families, business travelers, and those with immigration ties between the United Kingdom 🇬🇧 and Croatia 🇭🇷. Understanding the reasons behind this move, the alternatives available, and the steps affected passengers should take is essential for anyone planning to travel between London and Zagreb during the winter months.

Why Did British Airways Suspend Zagreb Flights?

British Airways’ decision to halt its Zagreb flights for the winter season is part of a larger strategy to focus on more profitable routes and strengthen its network in key European cities. The airline is also expanding its long-haul operations, especially to North America and Asia. According to analysis by VisaVerge.com, this move reflects a broader trend among major airlines to adjust their schedules and resources in response to changing demand and competitive pressures.

The airline had originally planned to operate four weekly return flights between London Heathrow and Zagreb during the winter. However, with shifting passenger numbers and a need to optimize its fleet, British Airways decided to pause the route for the winter months. This is not an isolated case; the airline has also reduced or suspended other routes in the Balkan region, including flights to Belgrade and Ljubljana.

What Does This Mean for Travelers?

For travelers, the most immediate impact is the loss of British Airways’ direct service between London Heathrow and Zagreb during the winter season. This reduces the total number of weekly flights and limits options for those who prefer to fly with British Airways, especially members of the BA Executive Club and travelers who use the Oneworld alliance.

However, it’s important to note that direct air links between London and Zagreb will remain in place. Croatia Airlines will continue to operate three weekly flights between London Heathrow and Zagreb, while Ryanair will offer ten weekly flights between London Stansted and Zagreb. This means there is no complete loss of connectivity, but the overall seat capacity and frequency will be lower than in previous winters.

Key Details of the Suspension

• Suspension period: October 26, 2025 – March 28, 2026
• Last BA flight before suspension: October 25, 2025
• Service resumes: March 29, 2026, as a summer seasonal route
• Alternative carriers: Croatia Airlines (3 weekly flights to London Heathrow), Ryanair (10 weekly flights to London Stansted)
• Ticket sales: BA has stopped selling tickets for the affected period

How Does This Affect Immigration and Family Visits?

Many people use the British Airways London Heathrow–Zagreb route for more than just tourism. The flight is a key link for families split between the United Kingdom 🇬🇧 and Croatia 🇭🇷, students studying abroad, and business travelers with cross-border interests. For those with immigration needs—such as visa renewals, family reunification, or attending important appointments—having fewer flight options can make planning more difficult.

While alternative flights are available, the reduced frequency may mean less flexibility in choosing travel dates. This could be especially challenging during peak periods, such as holidays or school breaks, when demand for seats is high. Travelers may also face higher fares due to reduced competition, making it more expensive for families and individuals to travel.

What Should Affected Passengers Do?

If you have already booked a British Airways flight between London Heathrow and Zagreb for travel between October 26, 2025, and March 28, 2026, your flight has been canceled. Here’s what you should do:

1. Check your booking: Log in to your British Airways account or check your email for cancellation notices.
2. Contact British Airways Customer Service: You can request a refund or ask to be rebooked on a partner airline, such as Croatia Airlines. The airline should have already reached out to affected passengers, but it’s a good idea to follow up directly.
3. Explore alternative options: Consider booking with Croatia Airlines for flights to London Heathrow or Ryanair for flights to London Stansted. Both airlines have confirmed they will continue to serve the London–Zagreb route during the winter.
4. Monitor updates: Keep an eye on British Airways’ official website and communications for any changes to the suspension period or additional support for affected travelers.

For more information on your rights as an air passenger, including refunds and rebooking, you can visit the official UK Civil Aviation Authority page: UK Civil Aviation Authority – Your Rights.

What Are the Alternatives for London–Zagreb Travel?

Even with British Airways suspending its Zagreb flights for the winter, travelers still have direct options between the two cities:

• Croatia Airlines: Offers three weekly flights between London Heathrow and Zagreb. This is the only other carrier serving Heathrow directly from Zagreb during the winter.
• Ryanair: Provides ten weekly flights between London Stansted and Zagreb. While Stansted is farther from central London than Heathrow, Ryanair’s higher frequency may offer more flexibility for travelers.

Both airlines have stated their commitment to maintaining these routes throughout the winter, ensuring that direct air links between the United Kingdom 🇬🇧 and Croatia 🇭🇷 remain available.

How Will This Affect Fares and Competition?

With British Airways temporarily out of the market, there will be fewer seats available on direct flights between London and Zagreb. This reduction in capacity could lead to higher fares, especially during busy travel periods. Travelers are encouraged to book early to secure the best prices and availability.

Croatia Airlines and Ryanair may benefit from increased demand during the winter, as passengers who would have flown with British Airways look for alternatives. However, the presence of two carriers should help prevent prices from rising too sharply, as competition remains in place.

Impact on Frequent Flyers and Loyalty Programs

British Airways’ suspension of Zagreb flights will be especially noticeable for members of the BA Executive Club and travelers who collect Oneworld alliance points. During the winter, these passengers will need to use partner airlines or alternative routes to continue earning points and enjoying alliance benefits.

• BA Executive Club members: May be rebooked on Croatia Airlines, which is part of the Star Alliance, not Oneworld. This means points and status benefits may not transfer as usual.
• Oneworld alliance travelers: Will need to consider other routes or wait until British Airways resumes service in March 2026.

Business and Tourism Implications

The suspension of British Airways’ Zagreb flights for the winter season is likely to have a minor impact on business and tourism between the United Kingdom 🇬🇧 and Croatia 🇭🇷. While the reduction in flight frequency may make travel less convenient, the continued presence of Croatia Airlines and Ryanair helps to soften the blow.

• Business travelers: May need to adjust their schedules or use alternative airports, but direct connections remain available.
• Tourism sector: The winter season is typically quieter for tourism in Croatia, so the impact is expected to be limited. However, those planning winter holidays or family visits should book early to secure seats.

Historical Context: BA’s Zagreb Route

British Airways relaunched its London Heathrow–Zagreb service in December 2012 after a ten-year break. Since then, the airline has operated the route year-round, making it a reliable choice for travelers between the two capitals. The upcoming winter suspension is the first time in over a decade that BA will not offer this service during the colder months.

This move is part of a broader pattern, as British Airways has also reduced or suspended other routes in the Balkan region. The airline’s focus is shifting toward more profitable markets and long-haul destinations, reflecting changes in passenger demand and industry competition.

Industry Analysis and Broader Trends

Aviation experts point to several reasons behind British Airways’ decision:

• Fleet optimization: Airlines are constantly reviewing their schedules to make the best use of their planes and crews. By suspending less profitable routes during slower seasons, they can focus on markets with higher demand.
• Competitive pressures: The rise of low-cost carriers like Ryanair has changed the landscape for traditional airlines. With Ryanair offering more frequent and often cheaper flights, British Airways faces tough competition on certain routes.
• Changing travel patterns: The way people travel is always evolving. Seasonal demand, economic factors, and global events all play a role in shaping airline schedules.

As reported by VisaVerge.com, these factors have led to a wave of capacity reductions and route adjustments across the airline industry, especially in regions like the Balkans.

Multiple Perspectives: Who Wins and Who Loses?

• British Airways: Gains flexibility to focus on more profitable routes and long-haul expansion.
• Croatia Airlines and Ryanair: Stand to benefit from increased demand during BA’s absence, potentially filling more seats and attracting new customers.
• Travelers: Lose some choice and flexibility but retain direct connections between London and Zagreb.
• Tourism and business sectors: May see minor disruptions, but the impact is limited by the availability of alternative flights.

Looking Ahead: Will BA Return to Zagreb Year-Round?

British Airways has made it clear that the suspension is temporary and seasonal. The airline plans to resume its London Heathrow–Zagreb flights as a summer route starting March 29, 2026. There are no signs of a permanent withdrawal from the market, but future adjustments are always possible as airlines respond to changing conditions.

Travelers should stay informed about any updates from British Airways and consider signing up for alerts or newsletters from the airline and alternative carriers.

Summary Table: London–Zagreb Direct Flights, Winter 2025–26

Practical Tips for Travelers

• Book early: With fewer flights, seats may fill up quickly, especially around holidays.
• Compare airports: London Heathrow is closer to central London, while Stansted is farther out but may offer more frequent flights with Ryanair.
• Check visa and immigration requirements: Make sure your travel documents are in order, especially if you need a visa for the United Kingdom 🇬🇧 or Croatia 🇭🇷. You can find official information on UK visas at the UK Government’s visa page.
• Monitor airline communications: Stay updated on any changes to flight schedules or additional support for affected passengers.

Conclusion

The suspension of British Airways’ Zagreb flights for the 2025–26 winter season is a significant change, but it is not permanent. While travelers will have fewer options and may face higher fares, direct flights between London and Zagreb will continue with Croatia Airlines and Ryanair. Passengers with existing BA bookings should seek refunds or rebooking options and plan ahead for alternative travel. The route is expected to return as a summer seasonal service in March 2026, reflecting the airline’s ongoing efforts to adapt to market trends and passenger needs.

By staying informed and flexible, travelers can still make the journey between the United Kingdom 🇬🇧 and Croatia 🇭🇷 with minimal disruption. For the latest updates, always check with your airline and consult official government resources before you travel.

Learn Today

Suspension period → The specific dates flights are paused, here October 26, 2025 to March 28, 2026.
British Airways Executive Club → A loyalty program rewarding frequent British Airways flyers with points and perks.
Oneworld alliance → An airline alliance that offers shared benefits and coordinated routes among member airlines.
Rebooking → The process of reserving a new flight after cancellation or change of the original booking.
Direct flights → Nonstop flights between two destinations without layovers or transfers.

This Article in a Nutshell

British Airways halts its London-Zagreb route during winter 2025–26, first time since 2012, impacting travelers and families. Alternatives include Croatia Airlines and Ryanair flights. Passengers should check bookings, seek refunds, and prepare for fewer winter seats. Service returns March 29, 2026, as a seasonal summer route.
— By VisaVerge.com