Bratislava International Airport is gearing up for a significant expansion, with new routes and investments projected to increase annual passenger numbers by 1.1 million. A $100 million boost from Ryanair, combined with contributions from Norwegian and Pegasus Airlines, highlights Slovakia’s commitment to enhancing air connectivity and driving economic growth. The expansion is supported by the Slovak government’s National Aviation Strategy, emphasizing the role of aviation in tourism, trade, and regional development.
Ryanair Leads the Expansion Effort
Europe’s largest low-cost airline, Ryanair, is spearheading the growth at Bratislava Airport by introducing five new routes for the summer of 2025. Passengers will soon enjoy direct flights to Bari, Gdansk, Milan Malpensa, Skiathos, and Zadar, increasing the airport’s capacity by 25%. To support these routes, Ryanair will add a third aircraft to its Bratislava-based fleet.
This expansion will create 1,000 local jobs, including 90 high-paying aviation positions. “After intensive negotiations with Ryanair, we managed to expand the network of routes from Bratislava,” said Dusan Novota, CEO of Bratislava Airport. “These destinations further enrich travel options for Slovak holidaymakers and attract more inbound tourists.”
Norwegian Airlines Reopens Bratislava-Copenhagen Route
Norwegian Airlines is set to revive its Bratislava-Copenhagen route after a decade-long hiatus. Beginning June 28, 2025, the route will offer two weekly flights on Tuesdays and Saturdays. This reintroduction reconnects Slovakia with Denmark, meeting a growing demand for direct travel between the two regions and providing an important link for both business and leisure travelers.
Pegasus Airlines Strengthens Popular Services
Building on its success in 2024, Pegasus Airlines will continue to expand its footprint at Bratislava Airport. The airline’s direct route to Antalya has quickly become one of the airport’s most popular destinations, alongside other key routes such as Istanbul, London, Milan, Hurghada, and Skopje. Pegasus Airlines’ three weekly flights to Istanbul play a vital role in connecting Slovakia with Turkey’s vibrant cultural and economic hub.
Passenger Growth and Competitive Ambitions
In 2024, Bratislava International Airport recorded 1,948,008 passengers. With the newly added routes and investments, the airport aims to significantly exceed this figure in 2025, establishing itself as a viable alternative to Vienna International Airport.
