Published on
August 22, 2025
By: Tuhin Sarkar
Croatia joins Mexico, Australia, Grenada, Thailand, and Vietnam in starting new international air routes from the US, and this new update is here to reshape travel choices for millions of passengers. The announcement marks a turning point, as Croatia joins Mexico, Australia, Grenada, Thailand, and Vietnam in providing easier access for US travellers. These new international air routes from the US are not just about convenience. They are about making global travel simpler, faster, and more connected.
As Croatia links with Mexico, Australia, Grenada, Thailand, and Vietnam, the addition of these air routes from the US opens up new opportunities for tourism, family visits, and business travel. Each of these destinations is unique, but all share the same goal: to make journeys more seamless for US passengers. The new update is here at the perfect time, as demand for overseas travel continues to surge.
Croatia now joins Mexico with its Mediterranean appeal, Australia with its Asia-Pacific strength, Grenada with its Caribbean charm, Thailand with its cultural depth, and Vietnam with its vibrant growth. These international air routes from the US give travellers more choices than ever before. Airlines are responding to demand with bold expansions.
In summary, Croatia joins Mexico, Australia, Grenada, Thailand, and Vietnam to create a new era of air connectivity. The new update is here, and it means US tourists now have a wider world within direct reach, just in time for upcoming holiday travel.
The winter of 2025 will change the way Americans travel. Airlines are launching 26 new routes that connect the USA to fresh destinations worldwide. From Mexico’s warm beaches to Australia’s vibrant cities and the Caribbean’s peaceful islands, these flights make travel faster, easier, and more affordable. For families, business travellers, and adventurers, the new connections come just in time for Christmas holidays and ski season. This expansion reflects how airlines are reshaping global tourism and making the world more accessible from American airports.
December 2025 brings the biggest expansion
December is the month that reshapes air travel. Sixteen new routes will launch in just a few weeks. Families planning Christmas holidays will benefit most. With so many new direct flights, planning an escape becomes simpler. November adds four new routes, while October delivers six. Together, these months create the largest wave of new flights seen in years. Americans can now access beaches, mountains, and global capitals without lengthy layovers. This concentration of launches shows airlines’ confidence in demand for winter travel.
American Airlines puts Oklahoma City on the map
American Airlines is making history by giving Oklahoma City its first ever international flight. From 8 November, passengers can fly direct to Cancun, Mexico every Saturday. This move eliminates long transfers for Oklahomans and creates a direct link to the Caribbean sun. American is also boosting links to the Dominican Republic, adding flights from Pittsburgh, Indianapolis, Nashville, and Raleigh-Durham to Punta Cana. These routes are perfect for families planning winter sun escapes. For skiers, American adds Charlotte to Aspen from 19 December, bringing the Rocky Mountains within easy reach of southern travellers.
United Airlines opens Adelaide and boosts Asia
United Airlines delivers one of the most significant new routes of 2025. From 11 December, Americans can fly direct from San Francisco to Adelaide, Australia. This is the first time South Australia has had a non-stop link with the US. Adelaide offers culture, wine, and ease of travel, earning its nickname “the 20 Minute City.” United also boosts Asia access. Passengers can now fly through Hong Kong to reach Bangkok in Thailand and Ho Chi Minh City in Vietnam. Flights from San Francisco to Manila double, making it easier for families to reunite for Christmas.
Delta Air Lines heads into new Caribbean skies
Delta is adding sparkle to the Caribbean with flights to St Vincent and the Grenadines and Grenada from Atlanta. Both islands offer unspoiled beauty, with clear waters and authentic island culture. The “Spice Island” of Grenada is famous for nutmeg and cinnamon. St Vincent offers tranquillity and untouched beaches. Delta also boosts Florida access, launching seven new Saturday routes to Orlando. Texans gain a warm-weather option with the new Austin to Palm Springs service. Delta is also strengthening its global portfolio with a new route from New York to Tel Aviv, catering to both family and religious travel demand.
JetBlue connects to Florida’s quieter coasts
JetBlue is bringing travellers closer to Florida’s less crowded destinations. From December, Vero Beach will see its first commercial flights from Boston and New York. This offers peaceful beaches away from Miami’s bustle. JetBlue is also returning to Daytona Beach, reviving daily flights after a seven-year break. Known for wide Atlantic beaches and motor racing, Daytona is perfect for both families and fans. JetBlue is restoring links from Fort Lauderdale to Atlanta and Austin, giving travellers easy access to Florida’s iconic coasts. These routes highlight JetBlue’s focus on serving hidden gems alongside famous tourist hubs.
Alaska Airlines links California to mountains and vineyards
Alaska Airlines is reshaping regional connectivity with seven new routes. Burbank gains direct flights to Eugene and Redmond in Oregon, as well as Pasco in Washington. The highlight is a new San Diego to Sun Valley flight, which gives Southern Californians access to Idaho’s premier ski resort. Palm Springs also gains a route to Santa Rosa, opening up California’s wine country. These routes give travellers quick escapes without relying on major hubs. They reflect Alaska Airlines’ strategy of connecting mid-sized cities to leisure destinations, cutting travel times and boosting tourism flows.
Why airlines are betting on winter routes
The choice of new routes reflects demand patterns. Americans want sunshine, snow, and cultural adventure. Airlines are adding Caribbean and Mexican routes to meet demand for warm beaches. Ski routes to Aspen and Sun Valley serve the winter sports market. Asia-Pacific expansion supports business growth and family travel. Doubling flights to Manila is particularly valuable for diaspora families. Israel gains more seats, reflecting religious and cultural demand. By targeting multiple needs—leisure, sport, family, and business—airlines are maximising the value of their winter schedules.
Nine countries gain new US links this winter
This expansion connects America to nine international destinations. The Dominican Republic benefits most, with four new routes highlighting its popularity with US tourists. Mexico gains a historic new route from Oklahoma City. Australia sees its first-ever link to Adelaide. Thailand and Vietnam gain easier access via Hong Kong. The Philippines sees more flights to Manila. The Caribbean islands of St Vincent, Grenada, and the Dominican Republic gain prominence. Israel strengthens ties with New York. Together, these connections highlight how airlines are targeting both established and emerging markets for winter tourism.
Competition creates better value for travellers
Airlines are competing fiercely for the American traveller. Delta is adding seven new international routes. American Airlines launches six. JetBlue adds five, while United and Alaska add four each. This competition benefits passengers with lower fares, more choices, and better schedules. The variety of routes also spreads tourism benefits across regions. Smaller cities like Oklahoma City and Vero Beach now feature on international travel maps. Competition ensures that airlines innovate with schedules and destinations, keeping air travel dynamic. Travellers will enjoy both value and convenience as a result.
How travellers benefit from new routes
For travellers, these new flights mean freedom. Saturday-only flights are designed for weekend escapes. Daily flights serve families planning long Christmas breaks. Business travellers gain faster connections to Asia-Pacific markets. Families benefit from easier ways to visit relatives in Manila or Tel Aviv. Skiers and beach lovers save hours with direct access. For many, these routes reduce costs by eliminating transfers and long waits. Airlines have invested in making travel smoother and more affordable. The winter holidays of 2025 will be easier to plan and more exciting to enjoy.
Global tourism impact of US airline growth
The ripple effects of these routes go beyond American airports. Caribbean islands, Asian capitals, and Australian wine regions will all see a surge in visitors. Hotels, tour operators, and restaurants are preparing for new business. Local economies benefit from tourism spending. For destinations like Adelaide or Vero Beach, new flights put them firmly on the global tourism map. These routes also support cultural exchange and international business. By expanding networks, US airlines are not just serving American tourists but boosting global tourism economies. The 2025 winter expansion will have lasting impact worldwide.
The world is now closer than ever
The launch of 26 new routes for winter 2025 is a milestone in global travel. Airlines are making beaches, mountains, and global cities more accessible than ever before. Families can escape to the Caribbean, skiers can head to the Rockies, and adventurers can reach Asia-Pacific destinations in fewer hours. Competition among airlines ensures lower prices and more choice. For US travellers, this is the season when the world opens up. The new connections prove one thing: the next great holiday is no longer far away. It is just a direct flight from home.
Croatia seeks stronger air links with the USA
Croatia is pushing hard for more direct flights between the USA and its airports. The drive comes as American tourist arrivals continue to break records. In the first half of 2025, more than 260,000 Americans visited Croatia, marking a 16 percent rise over last year. With only one direct route linking New York and Dubrovnik, pressure is mounting to expand capacity. Officials stress that long-haul markets like the United States are critical for growth. Without more flights, Croatia risks losing potential revenue and momentum in a fiercely competitive tourism market.
Growing demand from American travellers
American travellers are falling in love with Croatia. From Dubrovnik’s historic walls to Split’s waterfront and Istria’s wine regions, demand is spreading beyond the Adriatic jewel. In just six months, arrivals reached over a quarter of a million. This momentum is fuelled by a mix of cultural appeal, Game of Thrones fame, and growing awareness of Croatia’s natural beauty. Rising spending by American tourists is also strengthening the economy. However, demand is outpacing connectivity. One daily United Airlines flight from Newark is not enough. For growth to continue, airlines must expand options quickly.
Dubrovnik at the heart of the debate
Dubrovnik remains Croatia’s only airport with direct flights to the USA. United Airlines operates a daily rotation from Newark during the summer. Past efforts by Delta and American Airlines brought seasonal services from New York and Philadelphia, but these routes lasted only one season each. Dubrovnik Airport CEO Viktor Šober has repeatedly called for more connections. He argues that one route cannot serve the demand of an entire nation. More routes are needed to strengthen Dubrovnik’s role as a gateway for American travellers and to spread benefits across Croatia’s regions.
Challenges facing expansion plans
Airlines face hurdles in expanding transatlantic networks. A shortage of wide-body aircraft is limiting capacity. Production delays and supply chain disruptions have slowed deliveries of Boeing and Airbus jets. Airlines are cautious with capacity allocation, balancing European destinations against global demand. Despite these obstacles, American and Delta are expanding aggressively in other European markets. Philadelphia to Budapest, Dallas to Athens, and Los Angeles to Barcelona are among their newest routes. Croatia is still waiting for its chance. The challenge is convincing carriers that Croatia can deliver consistent year-round demand.
Government and tourism board efforts
Croatia’s leaders are lobbying hard for more flights. Foreign Minister Gordan Grlić Radman recently raised the issue in Florida with local leaders. The Croatian National Tourist Board is also campaigning, emphasising that accessibility is key to capturing long-haul markets. Tourism officials argue that strong US demand, proven by rising arrivals, justifies new connections. They highlight that Croatia’s appeal extends beyond summer, with cultural events, wine harvests, and wellness tourism drawing travellers year-round. Efforts are aligned with Croatia’s wider strategy to position itself as a premium destination in Europe’s competitive tourism landscape.
Why American tourists matter for Croatia
American visitors are among Croatia’s highest spenders. They stay longer, spend more on accommodation, and are more likely to choose luxury hotels or boutique stays. They also drive demand for tours, restaurants, and cultural experiences. This spending power is vital as Croatia faces rising operating costs across the hospitality sector. More direct flights mean easier access and greater confidence for travellers. Without them, Croatia risks losing tourists to rival Mediterranean destinations like Greece, Italy, and Spain, which already enjoy stronger US connectivity. This is why securing flights is not just a desire—it is an urgent necessity.
The role of airlines in shaping the market
Airline strategies often determine which destinations thrive in long-haul tourism. When American Airlines launched Philadelphia to Dubrovnik in 2019, arrivals surged. The cancellation the following year showed how fragile progress can be without commitment. United’s steady Newark-Dubrovnik link has been a lifeline but lacks scale. With American Airlines and Delta adding multiple new European routes for 2026, Croatia is lobbying for inclusion. Each new route has ripple effects: boosting hotels, creating jobs, and supporting local economies. Airlines hold the key to whether Croatia can maintain its upward trajectory.
Competitive pressures from rival destinations
Croatia faces stiff competition in the Mediterranean. Greece has secured new US routes, including direct flights from New York, Atlanta, and Chicago to Athens. Spain continues to attract major capacity to Madrid and Barcelona. Italy benefits from strong links to Rome, Milan, and Venice. Without expansion, Croatia risks being sidelined. The country must capitalise on its current momentum before travellers shift to rivals. By positioning Dubrovnik and Zagreb as hubs, Croatia can carve out a place in the transatlantic market. Delay now could cost the nation years of lost opportunity.
Economic implications for tourism and beyond
Tourism is Croatia’s largest economic sector, accounting for nearly 20 percent of GDP. US travellers represent a premium segment that strengthens the industry’s stability. More direct flights would increase demand not only in Dubrovnik but across the country. Zagreb, Split, and Zadar could all benefit from new connectivity. Improved access also supports investment, trade, and cultural exchange. The economic ripple extends beyond tourism. Airlines, hotels, tour operators, and local businesses all benefit. Croatia’s broader economy stands to gain significantly from every new direct connection with the United States.
Looking ahead to summer 2026 and beyond
Airlines are finalising their networks for the 2026 summer season. American and Delta have already announced new European routes, but Croatia has not yet been included. Lobbying efforts continue. Officials remain optimistic that Croatia’s strong growth story will attract attention. The coming months will be critical. A new route announcement could transform Croatia’s tourism outlook for years. Without it, growth may slow despite rising demand. The future of Croatia’s US market depends on convincing airlines that the time to invest is now. The stakes for tourism, economy, and global visibility are high.
Connectivity is Croatia’s next frontier
Croatia’s rise as a favourite for American travellers is undeniable. Record arrivals show the strength of its appeal. Yet growth cannot be sustained without stronger air links. Dubrovnik’s single route is not enough. The government, airports, and tourism leaders are united in their call for expansion. With airlines announcing new routes soon, Croatia’s window of opportunity is now. More direct flights from the USA will not only boost tourism but also cement Croatia’s place as a premium global destination. The challenge is clear. The rewards for success are even greater.
