About Trade Air
Trade Air is a Croatian passenger and cargo airline operating under IATA code C3 and ICAO code TDR, headquartered in Zagreb, Croatia, with its main base at Franjo Tudman Airport (ZAG). Founded in April 1994 by Mihajlo Cvijin, the airline commenced operations on 22 May 1995 and remains a fully private company under Cvijin's ownership to this day.
Trade Air specialises in ACMI (Aircraft, Crew, Maintenance, Insurance) leasing, ad-hoc charter flights, passenger charter chains, and scheduled domestic services within Croatia. The airline also holds certification for the transport of dangerous goods by air. Over its three decades of operations, Trade Air has built ACMI business partnerships with more than 60 airlines across Europe, Asia, Africa, the Middle East, and Australia, making it one of the most experienced charter and ACMI operators in Southeast Europe.
For Malaysian travellers, Trade Air's extensive European charter network offers potential connections to Croatian holiday destinations such as Dubrovnik, Split, and Zagreb, particularly during the summer season when charter demand peaks. While Trade Air does not operate scheduled routes to or from Malaysia, its aircraft frequently appear on routes across Europe and beyond under ACMI agreements with partner airlines.
Airline Overview and History
Trade Air has grown from a small cargo operation into one of Croatia's most versatile airlines over more than 30 years. Key milestones in the airline's history include:
- April 1994 — Trade Air founded in Zagreb, Croatia, as a cargo airline by Mihajlo Cvijin
- 22 May 1995 — Commenced flight operations
- April 1999 — Began operating its first Let L-410 Turbolet aircraft for cargo and passenger services
- Summer 2000 — Added two more Let L-410 Turbolet aircraft to the fleet
- 2004 — Acquired two Fokker 100 jet aircraft, expanding into larger passenger charter operations
- March 2005 — Started Fokker 100 passenger charter flights
- May 2008 — Received IATA Operational Safety Audit (IOSA) certification, a globally recognised safety benchmark
- 2010 — Operated scheduled flights between Zagreb, Ljubljana, and Sarajevo using Let L-410 Turbolet aircraft
- 2011 — Acquired a third Fokker F100 aircraft to meet growing charter demand
- Summer 2013 — Launched scheduled service between Osijek and Zagreb, the first connection on this route in 26 years, supported by the Croatian Ministry for Sea, Transport, and Infrastructure
- May 2016 — Began operating scheduled flights on behalf of Croatia Airlines from Zagreb to Athens, Barcelona, Brussels, Copenhagen, Dubrovnik, and Lisbon
- February 2017 — Secured a contract with Swiss travel agency PowdAir to operate winter ski-charter flights from Sion Airport, Switzerland
- 2018 — Signed an ongoing ACMI contract with Israel's Israir Airlines for flights from Tel Aviv to European destinations
- 2019 — Took delivery of its second Airbus A320, transitioning to a more modern jet fleet
- 2024 — Fleet expanded with an additional Airbus A320; commenced wet-lease operations for Croatia Airlines from Zagreb and Split
- 2025 — Added a fifth Airbus A320 to the fleet, further strengthening charter and ACMI capacity
Trade Air's primary hub is Franjo Tudman Airport in Zagreb (ZAG), Croatia's busiest airport and the main gateway for international travellers visiting the country. The airline is a member of the European Regions Airline Association (ERA) and continues to expand its ACMI and charter portfolio across multiple continents.
Fleet and Aircraft
Trade Air operates a mixed fleet of jet and turboprop aircraft suited to its diverse range of charter, ACMI, and scheduled operations. The current fleet includes:
- Airbus A320 — Five units in the fleet (registrations 9A-BTH, 9A-BTI, 9A-BTK, 9A-BTL, 9A-BTM), each configured with 180 seats in a single-class economy layout. These aircraft form the backbone of Trade Air's charter and ACMI operations, deployed on medium-haul routes across Europe, the Middle East, and beyond
- Saab 340 — One 34-seat turboprop aircraft operated by Poland's Sprint Air on a wet-lease basis for Trade Air's domestic PSO (Public Service Obligation) flights within Croatia
- Let L-410 Turbolet — A twin-engine turboprop used for short regional flights and special operations. The L-410 was the first aircraft type in Trade Air's fleet and has been in service since 1999
Trade Air maintains all its aircraft to the highest European aviation safety standards in accordance with the Croatian Civil Aviation Agency (CCAA) and the European Union Aviation Safety Agency (EASA) regulations. The airline's transition from Fokker 100 jets to the modern Airbus A320 fleet reflects its commitment to operational efficiency, reliability, and passenger comfort.
Top Flight Routes
Trade Air's route network encompasses domestic Croatian PSO services, European charter flights, and worldwide ACMI operations. The airline's scheduled domestic flights connect key Croatian cities, while its charter and ACMI operations reach destinations across Europe, Asia, Africa, and the Middle East.
Domestic Croatian Routes (PSO Services)
Under Croatia's Public Service Obligation programme, Trade Air operates scheduled flights connecting Osijek, in eastern Croatia, to major cities across the country:
- Osijek to Zagreb — The most frequent domestic route, connecting eastern Slavonia to the capital city
- Osijek to Split — Linking eastern Croatia to the Dalmatian coast, popular during summer
- Osijek to Dubrovnik — Connecting to Croatia's iconic walled city on the southern Adriatic coast
- Osijek to Rijeka — Service to the Kvarner Gulf region on the northern Adriatic
- Osijek to Pula — Connecting to Istria, known for its Roman amphitheatre and Mediterranean charm
- Osijek to Zadar — Seasonal summer service to the historic Dalmatian city
Charter and ACMI Operations
Trade Air's Airbus A320 fleet is deployed on charter and ACMI contracts across multiple continents. The airline has operated flights on behalf of more than 60 partner airlines, reaching destinations in Western Europe, the Mediterranean, Scandinavia, the Middle East, North Africa, and beyond. Notable ACMI partnerships have included operations for Croatia Airlines, Israir Airlines, and various European tour operators.
For Malaysian travellers interested in visiting Croatia or the wider European region, popular connecting routes from Kuala Lumpur include:
Search for the latest flight availability and prices on Traveloka to find the best route and fare for your trip to Croatia and Europe.
Baggage Allowance and Policies
Trade Air's baggage allowance varies depending on the aircraft type and route. On all Trade Air flights, passengers are entitled to carry one piece of hand luggage and one piece of checked baggage free of charge.
Cabin Baggage
- Weight limit: 8 kg per passenger
- Maximum dimensions: Total of three dimensions (length + width + height) must not exceed 115 cm
Checked Baggage
Free checked baggage allowance depends on the aircraft type:
- Airbus A320 flights: Maximum 20 kg per passenger; total of three dimensions must not exceed 158 cm
- Fokker 100 flights: Maximum 15 kg per passenger; total of three dimensions must not exceed 158 cm
Special Luggage
Special items such as sports equipment, musical instruments, pets, and wheelchairs are subject to separate handling arrangements. Passengers carrying these items should contact Trade Air's Passenger Contact Centre or the travel agency through which they purchased their ticket well in advance of travel to arrange acceptance and any applicable fees.
Prohibited and Restricted Items
Trade Air follows European Union aviation security regulations. Key restrictions include:
- Dangerous goods, flammable materials, explosives, and sharp objects are prohibited in cabin baggage
- Lithium batteries, power banks, and electronic cigarettes must be carried in cabin baggage only
- Liquids in cabin baggage must comply with the EU 100 ml per container rule, carried in a single transparent resealable bag not exceeding 1 litre
Check-in Guide
Airport Counter Check-in
Trade Air does not offer online check-in. All passengers must check in at the designated airport counter on the day of travel. Key check-in information:
- Counter closure: Check-in counters close 30 minutes before the scheduled departure time
- Recommended arrival — domestic flights: At least 1 hour before scheduled departure
- Recommended arrival — international flights: At least 1.5 hours before scheduled departure
At the check-in counter, staff will verify your identity and travel documents, issue your boarding pass, weigh and tag your checked baggage, and direct you to the security screening area and departure gate. Arriving early is recommended during peak travel periods and busy charter seasons, particularly in summer when passenger volumes increase significantly on Croatian routes.
Online Check-in
Trade Air does not currently offer online or mobile check-in. All check-in procedures are handled at the airport counter. Passengers should ensure they arrive at the airport with sufficient time to complete the check-in process before counter closure.
Cabin Classes and In-Flight Experience
Economy Class
Trade Air operates a single cabin class — Economy — across all aircraft types. On the Airbus A320, the cabin is configured with 180 seats in a standard 3-3 layout, offering comfortable seating for short to medium-haul flights. Passengers can expect:
- Standard economy seat pitch suitable for European domestic and regional flights
- Window, middle, and aisle seat options
- Overhead compartment storage for cabin baggage
In-Flight Meals and Beverages
In-flight catering on Trade Air flights depends on the type of operation and the chartering party's arrangements:
- Charter flights: Coffee, tea, juice, and a sandwich or equivalent snack are a standard part of the charter service offering. The specific selection and quality of in-flight catering is determined by the lessee (chartering party), so passengers should check with their travel agency or tour operator for details
- Scheduled PSO flights: A light refreshment service may be available on domestic flights within Croatia
Passengers with specific dietary requirements — including halal, vegetarian, or allergy-related needs — are advised to contact their travel agency or Trade Air's Passenger Contact Centre before the flight to confirm meal availability and options.
In-Flight Entertainment
Trade Air does not offer a built-in in-flight entertainment system on its aircraft. Passengers are encouraged to bring personal devices loaded with their preferred entertainment content for the duration of the flight.
Passenger Policies and Special Services
Travelling with Children and Infants
- Children (2–11 years): Must be accompanied by at least one adult passenger. Each child requires their own seat and ticket
- Infants (under 2 years): May travel on an accompanying adult's lap with a reduced infant fare. One adult may accompany a maximum of one infant on their lap
- Required documents: Valid passport or birth certificate for all child and infant passengers. For international flights, ensure all travel documents and visas are in order
Pregnant Passengers
- Up to 27 weeks: No restrictions on air travel
- 28 weeks or more (single pregnancy): A medical fitness-to-fly letter from your doctor is required, dated no more than two weeks before the booked flight
- After 36 weeks (single pregnancy): Travel is not permitted
- After 32 weeks (complicated pregnancy or multiple pregnancy — twins, triplets): Travel is not permitted
- After giving birth: You may fly 7 days after a normal delivery with no complications. If you had a Caesarean section or required surgery, you cannot fly for at least 10 days and will need a fitness-to-fly letter from your doctor
Passengers Requiring Special Assistance
Trade Air provides assistance for disabled passengers and persons with reduced mobility. Passengers requiring special assistance must inform the airline no later than 48 hours before departure. Available services include:
- Wheelchair assistance from check-in through boarding and disembarkation
- Priority seating arrangements as needed
- Assistance from cabin crew during the flight
Passengers who need to travel with medical equipment or mobility aids should contact Trade Air's Passenger Contact Centre in advance to confirm arrangements.
Unaccompanied Minors
Passengers travelling with unaccompanied children should contact Trade Air directly to confirm eligibility, documentation requirements, and available supervision services for their specific route and flight.
Reschedule, Cancellation, and Refund Policy
Rescheduling Flights
To reschedule a Trade Air flight booked through Traveloka:
- Open the Traveloka app or website and navigate to My Booking
- Select the booking you wish to modify
- Choose the reschedule option and select a new flight
- Pay any applicable rescheduling fees or fare differences
Rescheduling availability and fees depend on the fare type purchased. Charter and promotional fares may have stricter conditions than standard bookings.
Cancellations and Refunds
Refund eligibility depends on the ticket type and the circumstances of cancellation:
- Fully refundable fares: Cancel and receive a full refund to the original payment method
- Partially refundable fares: A cancellation fee is deducted from the refund amount
- Non-refundable promotional fares: May be converted into travel credit for future bookings
Under European Union Regulation EC 261/2004, passengers on flights departing from the EU are entitled to compensation and assistance in the event of flight cancellation, long delays, or denied boarding. If Trade Air cancels your flight, you may be entitled to a full refund or rebooking on the next available flight at no additional cost.
To request a cancellation or refund, visit your booking details on Traveloka and follow the guided process. Refund processing typically takes 7 to 30 business days depending on the payment method.
Why Book Trade Air Flights on Traveloka
Booking Trade Air flights through Traveloka offers several advantages for Malaysian travellers:
- Competitive pricing — Access the best available fares on Trade Air charter and scheduled flights
- Easy comparison — Compare Trade Air flights alongside other airlines by price, departure time, duration, and stops in a single search
- Flexible payment options — Pay with credit or debit cards, bank transfers, Touch 'n Go eWallet, Boost, GrabPay, ShopeePay, or instalment plans
- Instant e-ticket — Receive your booking confirmation and e-ticket immediately via email and the Traveloka app
- 24/7 customer support — Multilingual support team available around the clock for any booking issues, changes, or travel queries
- Loyalty rewards — Earn Traveloka Points and enjoy cashback promotions on eligible bookings
- Secure transactions — Traveloka uses industry-standard encryption to protect your personal and payment information
Tips for Finding Cheap Flights on Traveloka
Use these strategies to secure the best fares when searching for flights to Croatia and Europe on Traveloka:
- Book early — Ticket prices generally increase closer to the departure date, especially during the European summer peak season from June to September
- Be flexible with dates — Use Traveloka's fare calendar to compare prices across different travel dates and identify the cheapest days to fly
- Fly midweek — Flights departing on Tuesdays and Wednesdays tend to offer lower fares than weekend departures
- Set Price Alerts — Activate Traveloka's Price Alert feature to receive instant notifications when fares drop on your preferred route
- Check promotions regularly — Visit Traveloka's flight deals page for flash sales, exclusive promo codes, and seasonal discounts
- Travel during off-peak periods — Avoid school holidays, public holidays, and major festive seasons for lower fares. For Europe-bound flights, shoulder months like May and October offer better deals than peak summer
- Bundle your trip — Book flights and hotels together on Traveloka for combined savings on your European holiday
- Compare connecting options — Flights with one stop through major hubs like Istanbul, Dubai, or London are often significantly cheaper than direct options
How to Book Flight Tickets on Traveloka
Follow these steps to book your Trade Air flight or connecting flights to Croatia on Traveloka:
- Visit traveloka.com or open the Traveloka app and navigate to the Flights section
- Enter your departure city (e.g., Kuala Lumpur) and destination (e.g., Zagreb, Dubrovnik, or Split), select your travel dates, and specify the number of passengers
- Tap the search button to view all available flights for your route, including connecting options
- Sort results by price, departure time, or duration and select your preferred flight itinerary
- Enter passenger details — full name as it appears on your passport, date of birth, nationality, and contact information
- Add optional extras such as additional baggage, seat selection, or travel insurance
- Review your booking summary including total fare, taxes, and any add-ons
- Choose your preferred payment method — credit or debit card, bank transfer, Touch 'n Go eWallet, Boost, GrabPay, ShopeePay, or instalment plan — and complete the transaction
- Receive your e-ticket instantly via email and the Traveloka app — save it for reference at the airport
With Traveloka, finding and booking flights to Croatia and across Europe is fast, secure, and hassle-free. Search for your next destination today and explore the stunning coastline, historic cities, and natural beauty of Croatia.