Croatia Plane Crash: Two Dead in Paklenica Mountains

Two people died Friday in a Croatia plane crash when a small ultralight aircraft went down in the rugged Velebit mountains near Zadar, according to Croatian police. The aircraft was flying from the Czech Republic to the coastal city of Zadar when air traffic control lost radar contact at approximately 4:14 p.m. local time.

What Happened in the Croatia Plane Crash?

The ultralight motor glider, registered as D-KWZE, departed from the Czech Republic and was en route to Zadar, a popular Adriatic destination. Croatia Control, the national air navigation service provider, reported losing the plane's signal northeast of Zadar, in the area of Paklenica National Park. The crash site is located roughly 60 kilometres northeast of the coastal city, in a mountainous and heavily forested region that is difficult to access.

The Paklenica National Park area is known for its steep karst canyons and challenging terrain, which complicated the initial search efforts. Local police confirmed that two bodies were found alongside the wreckage late Friday evening.

Search and Rescue Operation

After the radar signal disappeared, authorities launched a large-scale search-and-rescue operation involving police, firefighters, and the Croatian Mountain Rescue Service. Teams used drones to scan the inaccessible slopes, but bad weather initially delayed progress.

Timeline of the Croatia plane crash

• 4:14 p.m. – Air traffic control loses contact with the ultralight aircraft.
• Early evening – Police, firefighters, and mountain rescuers begin searching the Paklenica area.
• Around 10 p.m. – Rescuers locate the wreckage and two bodies in the Velebit mountains.
• Saturday morning – An official on-site investigation is scheduled to begin.

"The scene has been secured for an on-site investigation into the circumstances of the incident," police said in a statement.

Victims and Aircraft Details

Authorities have not yet released the nationalities or identities of the two victims. The Czech Foreign Ministry stated that the deceased were not Czech citizens, according to reports. The aircraft, a two-seat Diamond HK36 Super Dimona motor glider, was registered in Germany despite departing from the Czech Republic.

This incident follows a series of small aircraft crashes in Europe this summer, raising renewed questions about ultralight flight safety in mountainous regions.

Investigation Underway

Investigators are expected to examine the wreckage, weather conditions, and flight data to determine the cause of the crash. Early reports suggest the aircraft may have encountered difficult flying conditions near the Velebit range, but no official cause has been established.

Aviation experts note that ultralight aircraft safety regulations vary across Europe, and incidents in remote terrain often require extensive recovery operations. The Croatian Civil Protection Directorate coordinated the response, with support from local emergency services.

Frequently Asked Questions

Where did the Croatia plane crash happen?

The ultralight aircraft crashed in Paklenica National Park, in the Velebit mountains, about 60 kilometres northeast of Zadar, Croatia.

How many people died in the crash?

Two people on board were killed. Their identities and nationalities have not been officially released.

What type of aircraft was involved?

The aircraft was a two-seat Diamond HK36 Super Dimona motor glider, registered in Germany as D-KWZE.

When will the investigation begin?

An on-site investigation was scheduled to begin Saturday morning, according to Croatian police.