Turkish Airlines’ new Dubrovnik route will be the “beginning of a new story” for Turkey and Croatia, the Balkan city’s mayor has said.

Mayor Andro Vlahusic told Anadolu Agency that the new Turkish Airlines route is another door that opens Turkey to Europe.        

“Turkey will establish new ties with the EU via this flight route,” Vlahusic said, adding that the two countries already enjoyed a good relationship, politically and culturally.     

“The new route between Istanbul and Dubrovnik will be the beginning of a new story for both countries,” he added. “This cooperation will leave a positive impression on both passengers and tourism firms.”    
    
Introductory fares from Istanbul to Dubrovnik will start at $99, including tax and fees.    
    
Turkish Airlines early announced that the new route will run from May 10. Flights to the Adriatic Sea destination will operate three times a week.        

Dubrovnik marks the second destination in Croatia for Turkey’s flagship carrier after the capital, Zagreb.   
     
In the last quarter of 2014, the number of Turkish Airlines’ destinations rose from 264 to 284, including 49 domestic and 235 international destinations in 113 countries.        

In 2015, the airline’s capacity increased by 13.6 percent to 61.2 million passengers carried over the year.