On October 27th, Air Baltic inaugurated a weekly flight connecting Ljubljana, Slovenia, and Gran Canaria, scheduled to operate until April 2026. The launch was notably low-key, marked only by a brief statement from the Slovenian airport and an official photo.
This route aims to diversify Air Baltic's market presence during a decline in Nordic and German tourist traffic. The flight benefits from state incentives provided by the Slovenian government as part of efforts to enhance air connectivity.
The flight is the first regular direct link between Ljubljana and Gran Canaria. Despite its strategic importance, the route's arrival on the island received minimal attention, contrasting sharply with the active promotion typical of other European destinations welcoming new services.
"A completely understated launch, which under other circumstances would have been considered a strategic move to diversify markets amidst the slowdown in Nordic and German passenger traffic."
"The flight, spurred by state incentives from the Slovenian government as part of its program to strengthen air connectivity, represents the first regular direct connection between Ljubljana and Gran Canaria."
The minimal publicity contrasts with the enthusiasm shown for other routes, such as EasyJet services to France, despite EasyJet lacking a tax base in Gran Canaria. Air Baltic is recognized as a reliable operator within the Baltic and Central European corridor.
The Deputy Minister of Transport attended the launch, underscoring government support for the new connection.
Author's Summary: Air Baltic quietly started a new weekly flight from Ljubljana to Gran Canaria, focusing on market diversification and state-backed connectivity despite limited local promotion.