Search Underway for Missing Ultralight Plane Near Zadar, Croatia

Search and rescue teams are actively searching for an ultralight aircraft that lost contact with air traffic control. The aircraft, registered as D-KWZE, was en route from the Czech Republic to Zadar, Croatia, when its signal disappeared approximately 17 nautical miles northeast of Zadar around 4:14 PM on August 21, 2026. The Croatian Civil Protection Directorate confirmed the loss of signal and initiated a search and rescue operation. Reports indicate the plane was carrying two people. Due to adverse weather conditions, aerial searches are currently not possible. Ground operations are being conducted in the Velebit mountain region, involving the Croatian Mountain Rescue Service (HGSS), police, and intervention units equipped with drones. The Directorate shared an update on the situation via Facebook, detailing the aircraft's flight path and the timing of the signal loss. The incident has prompted a significant emergency response as authorities work to locate the missing aircraft and its occupants.