Croatia Airlines Airbus A220 veers off runway during aborted takeoff in Split
A Croatia Airlines Airbus A220-300 suffered a runway excursion at Split Airport after a high-speed rejected takeoff bound for Frankfurt. All 135 passengers and crew were safely evacuated, while authorities have launched an investigation into the incident.
- Croatia Airlines A220-300 suffered runway excursion during aborted takeoff in Split
- Aircraft was operating flight OU412 to Frankfurt with 135 people on board
- No injuries reported as authorities launch investigation into cause
CROATIA: A Croatia Airlines Airbus A220-300 veered off the runway during a high-speed rejected takeoff at Split Airport on Saturday (16 May 2026), prompting an emergency response and subsequent investigation.
According to Simple Flying, the aircraft was accelerating for departure when the crew initiated an abort at speeds exceeding 130 knots (150 mph), causing the jet to sharply veer left and exit the runway.
The aircraft, operating flight OU412 to Frankfurt, reportedly struck runway signs and lighting before coming to a stop on adjacent grass.
Flight details and sequence of events
FlightGlobal reported that the aircraft, registered 9A-CAN, was scheduled to operate from Split’s runway 23 to Frankfurt on 16 May.
The Croatian Air Accident Investigation Agency (AIN) said the “serious” incident occurred at approximately 13:35 local time.
It confirmed that during the aborted takeoff, one of the aircraft’s landing gear wheels left the asphalt surface.
Footage circulating online suggests reverse thrust was deployed during the rejection, and that the aircraft’s left engine may have struck a runway sign during the excursion.
Passengers safely evacuated
All 130 passengers and five crew members were safely evacuated following the aircraft’s stop, with no injuries reported, according to Croatia Airlines.
The airline said the rejected takeoff was carried out in line with standard procedures and confirmed that minor damage occurred to the aircraft.
Croatia Airlines added that passengers were assisted on the ground and alternative arrangements were made to transport travellers to Frankfurt.
Aircraft damage and investigation
The aircraft sustained damage, including to its left engine cowling, after contact with runway markers and signage, according to Simple Flying.
FlightGlobal reported that Croatian air traffic control, Split Airport operator, and emergency services were immediately notified, with AIN launching a formal investigation into the cause of the aborted takeoff.
The reason for the rejection has not yet been confirmed, and authorities have not released further technical findings.
Fleet context and airline response
The aircraft involved is part of Croatia Airlines’ ongoing transition to the Airbus A220 fleet as part of its modernisation programme. The jet was delivered less than a year ago.
The airline said the aircraft is currently grounded at Split Airport pending inspection by relevant authorities.
It added that its priority remains passenger and crew safety while technical assessments are carried out.
Investigators are expected to review flight data, cockpit procedures, and runway conditions as part of the ongoing inquiry.
