KresAir (Kresimirian Airways) is the state-owned flag carrier airline of the Divine Republic of Kresimiria. It holds a government-enforced monopoly on all air travel within the republic and operates the sole authorized international routes connecting Kresimiria to the outside world.
Known colloquially as “The Flying Bus” due to its aging fleet and utilitarian service, KresAir is nonetheless a vital artery for the nation, connecting the isolated northern districts of Viskogorje with the capital. It is perhaps most infamous for its intense security protocols; every flight is staffed by uniformed “Air Marshals” from the Council for Internal Affairs.
History
The Post-War Era (1948–1960)
KresAir was founded in 1948 by a decree from the Revolutionary People’s Party as part of the post-war reconstruction effort. The initial fleet consisted of converted military transport planes left over from the Unification War. The airline’s primary mission was not tourism, but rapid transit for government officials and the movement of mail and light cargo across the mountainous terrain of the north.
The Jet Age and Isolation (1970s–1990s)
During the 1970s, KresAir modernized its fleet with second-hand jetliners purchased from neutral nations. However, as Kresimiria turned inward under the isolationist policies of the late 20th century, international routes were slashed one by one. By 1990, KresAir flew to only three foreign capitals, and tickets were restricted to high-ranking party members and diplomats.
Operations and Fleet
The Fleet
KresAir operates a fleet that is notoriously outdated by modern standards. Maintenance is performed domestically by state-run engineering firms in Novi Otonik.
- Safety Record: Despite the age of the planes, KresAir boasts a surprisingly robust safety record. This is attributed to the “over-engineering” of maintenance schedules—planes spend nearly as much time in the hangar as they do in the air.
- In-Flight Experience: Passenger comfort is a secondary concern. The cabins are spartan, and the in-flight meal service is famous for its “Potatoes and Gravy” trays and lukewarm Bistrice Zhrazha (which is served only on domestic flights longer than two hours).
Security Measures
Flying KresAir is a high-security experience.
- Air Marshals: Every flight, domestic or international, includes at least two armed officers from the CIA. Their stated role is anti-terrorism, but they also serve to monitor conversations and prevent defectors from hijacking planes to flee the country.
- The “No-Fly” List: The Council for Internal Affairs maintains a vast database of citizens banned from air travel. This includes political dissidents, suspected members of the BLF, and citizens with “insufficient social credit.”
International Travel
KresAir is the only airline permitted to fly into or out of Kresimiria. Foreign airlines are banned from Kresimirian airspace. All international flights depart from and arrive at Sinj International Airport.
- Ticket Controls: Purchasing an international ticket requires a “Foreign Travel Visa” signed by a local diviner and approved by the central government. For the average citizen, leaving the country is virtually impossible.