Rijeka Seaplane Terminal

The terminal's closure was not due to issues with the facility itself, but was a direct result of the collapse of its sole operator, European Coastal Airlines (ECA). In August 2016, the Croatian Civil Aviation Agency (CCAA) suspended ECA's Air Operator Certificate (AOC) citing serious safety concerns and maintenance deficiencies. After the airline failed to rectify the issues, its AOC was permanently revoked in October 2016, forcing the immediate and complete cessation of all operations across its entire network, including the Rijeka terminal.

The physical site of the former terminal was located on Rijeka's main harbor breakwater, known as 'Molo Longo'. Following the closure, any specific seaplane infrastructure, such as the dedicated docking pontoon and small terminal building, was removed. The location has reverted to its primary function as part of the Port of Rijeka. It is now used as a pier for docking cruise ships and ferries, and the breakwater itself is a popular public walkway and promenade offering views of the city and the Kvarner Gulf.

The Rijeka Seaplane Terminal was a key northern hub in a modern and ambitious seaplane network launched by European Coastal Airlines in 2015. Its significance was not in long-term history, but in its role as a 21st-century pioneer aiming to revolutionize transport along the Croatian coast. Using a fleet of De Havilland Canada DHC-6 Twin Otter aircraft, it connected Rijeka with other Adriatic destinations like Pula, Split, and the islands of Rab and Mali Lošinj. The service offered a fast and scenic alternative to traditional ferries and lengthy road travel, significantly reducing travel times and boosting connectivity for tourists and locals before its abrupt end.

Uncertain. Since the demise of European Coastal Airlines, there has been persistent interest and several announcements from new companies aiming to re-establish a seaplane network in Croatia. However, these plans have faced significant financial and regulatory hurdles. While the market potential for such a service remains, there are no confirmed, concrete plans or established timelines for the specific reopening of a seaplane terminal in Rijeka. Its revival is entirely contingent on a new operator successfully launching and choosing to include Rijeka in its route network.