Newsflash from Tuesday, 3 February 2026:
If you are planning to travel between Heraklion and the eastern side of Crete over the next two weeks, take note: your commute might look a little different.
KTEL Heraklion-Lasithi SA has announced temporary modifications to several key bus routes due to essential maintenance work on the Northern Road Axis of Crete (VOAK). The works are concentrated near the old KTEO area, necessitating a detour for buses heading toward Malia, Agios Nikolaos, Ierapetra, and Sitia.
What You Need to Know
While the maintenance is underway, the standard routes have been adjusted. Most importantly for travelers and tourists, the Heraklion Airport stop will only be served by a specific selection of scheduled departures.
If you are catching a bus from the airport to head east, you must plan your trip around the following temporary timetable:
Monday – Saturday (Airport Stop Schedule)
* 07:30: Agios Nikolaos – Ierapetra – Sitia
* 10:00: Agios Nikolaos – Ierapetra
* 13:00: Agios Nikolaos – Sitia
* 14:45: Agios Nikolaos
* 16:45: Agios Nikolaos – Ierapetra
* 18:45: Agios Nikolaos – Ierapetra
* 20:45: Agios Nikolaos
**Sunday (Airport Stop Schedule)**
* 07:30: Agios Nikolaos – Ierapetra – Sitia
* 11:30: Agios Nikolaos – Ierapetra
* 13:00: Agios Nikolaos – Sitia
* 14:45: Agios Nikolaos
* 16:45: Agios Nikolaos – Ierapetra
* 18:45: Agios Nikolaos – Ierapetra
* 20:45: Agios Nikolaos
Plan Ahead to Avoid Delays
KTEL has expressed that these changes are temporary and are being implemented to ensure the safety of passengers and workers during the road improvements. However, because these modifications involve detours, travelers are encouraged to arrive at their stops a few minutes early and expect slight variations in arrival times at their final destinations.
The maintenance is expected to last approximately two weeks, or until the works at the old KTEO site are completed.
Why the Maintenance?
The VOAK is the backbone of Cretan transport, and regular maintenance is vital for road safety, especially as the island prepares for the busier spring season. While the “temporary inconvenience” may be frustrating for daily commuters, the upgrades aim to provide a smoother and safer journey for everyone in the long run.
Travel Tip: If you are unsure about a specific departure time not listed above, we recommend contacting the KTEL Heraklion-Lasithi central station directly or checking their official website for real-time updates.
Have these changes affected your travel plans? Let us know in the comments below! For more updates on Cretan travel and local news, subscribe to our blog.
