When does the new tourist season start and which airport has the most new flights?

Heraklion Airport will have the most new flights nationwide in 2025: A growing aviation hub and when does the new tourist season officially begin?

Heraklion Airport
Baggage claim at Heraklion Airport.

New direct connections for 2025 with eight major airports

In 2025, the passenger flow at Greek airports is set to rise significantly. Airlines are expanding their routes and flight frequencies to major tourist destinations in response to increased travel demand. This includes both international and domestic flights, reflecting a strong interest in visiting Greece.

Analysis from the airline research company Cirium indicates that 36 new direct flight routes are being added to the schedules of airlines flying to eight significant Greek airports: Athens, Thessaloniki, Heraklion, Corfu, Kos, Rhodes, Mykonos, and Santorini. This expansion will yield more than 1,300 new direct flights.

Among these airports, Heraklion is leading with a notable increase, offering 343 new flights along with ten new routes. Following Heraklion are Athens with 275 new flights, Rhodes with 223 new flights, and Santorini with 140 new flights. Other airports such as Corfu and Thessaloniki will also see increases, with significant numbers of new flight offerings.

The new connections for Heraklion include flights from various cities. Notably, there will be 144 new flights from Istanbul and 76 from Münster in Germany. There will also be 39 flights from Naxos and 30 from Corfu. Additional new service includes routes from Lorraine in France and Pardubice in the Czech Republic, each with 18 new flights.

Investments for Infrastructure Improvement

As airports prepare for the increase in traffic, significant investments are planned to enhance infrastructure. These improvements aim to accommodate the growing number of passengers and improve the overall travel experience. Upgrades may involve expanding terminal capacities, enhancing baggage handling systems, and upgrading security facilities.

The investments are expected to be a joint effort between the government and private sector stakeholders, reflecting a commitment to bolstering Greece’s tourism infrastructure. The upgrades will not only help manage the increased passenger volume but also enhance the efficiency of operations at major airports.

Concerns for Mykonos and Santorini

Despite the positive news regarding new flights and increasing passenger numbers, challenges remain for certain popular islands like Mykonos and Santorini. The significant rise in visitor numbers raises concerns about sustainability and the impact on local resources.

Local authorities and stakeholders are debating the need for better management of tourist flow. Issues such as overcrowding and strain on local amenities could arise, potentially diminishing the unique experiences these destinations offer. Engaging in discussions about responsible tourism and implementing strategies to mitigate potential adverse effects will be crucial as travel patterns evolve in the coming years.

An emphasis on balancing the benefits of increased tourist arrivals with the preservation of local communities and environments will be essential. Finding this equilibrium may dictate the future approach to tourism on these popular islands.

When Does the New Tourist Season Officially Begin on Crete?

Passengers leave the shuttle bus
Passengers leave the shuttle bus that picked them up from their landed aircraft at Heraklion airport terminal.

The new tourist season in Crete will officially start on Sunday, 30 March 2025. This date marks the arrival of the first scheduled flights for the season. The announcement was made by the new airport manager of Heraklion, Iakovos Ouranos, during a radio interview. He indicated that the tourism outlook for the year is strong, with expectations of high visitor numbers similar to or surpassing those of 2024.

The airport in Heraklion is crucial for tourism on the island. Numerous flights from various international destinations will arrive, bringing tourists to the beautiful locales of Crete. With new partnerships and routes being developed, the island is preparing to welcome a significant influx of visitors.

Key Details About the Tourist Season

  • Official Start Date: 30 March 2025
  • Location: Heraklion Airport
  • Projected Visitor Numbers: Strong interest, potentially more than in 2024
  • Airport Management: A new approach with a chosen manager for efficient operations

Iakovos Ouranos emphasised that tourism is a collective effort involving many stakeholders. He mentioned that the airport’s management would include a selected individual rather than a direct employee of the Civil Aviation Authority. This plan aims to streamline airport operations and improve the overall tourist experience.

Expectations for the Season

The tourism industry anticipates a busy year. Travel trends suggest that visitors from different countries will flock to Crete. With an increase in charter flights and new connections established, transportation to and from the island is set to become more accessible.

Visitor Demographics

Several nationalities are expected to visit Crete this season, including:

  • Poles
  • Czechs
  • Slovaks
  • Scandinavians

This diverse mix indicates that Crete’s appeal spans a broad geographic area, attracting tourists seeking both leisure and cultural experiences.

Preparations Underway

Preparations for the new season have already begun. Many hotels and services are gearing up to open their doors, ensuring that visitors have a pleasant stay. The local economy relies heavily on tourism, and stakeholders are optimistic about this influx of guests.

Crete has much to offer, from its stunning beaches to rich history and cuisine. Anticipation among local businesses is palpable, as they aim to provide excellent service to guests arriving throughout the spring and summer months.

Importance of Transportation

Transport links are vital for the success of any tourist season. This year, authorities are focusing on enhancing the travel experience. Improvements in infrastructure and transport services are expected to facilitate easy movement for tourists wishing to explore the island.

As the season begins, services such as car rentals, public transport, and organised tours will be essential for tourists looking to discover Crete’s attractions. Early bookings are being encouraged, as demand is likely to be high.

The Role of Airports in Tourism

Airports play a central role in connecting travellers to their destinations. In Crete, Heraklion Airport is the main gateway for international arrivals. The anticipated surge in flights means that visitors will have numerous options for arriving on the island.

New routes that have been established will help accommodate the increased traffic. This planning shows a proactive approach to managing tourism growth.


Frequently Asked Questions

What new flights will be available at Heraklion Airport in 2025?

Heraklion Airport is set to introduce a significant number of new flights in 2025. This expansion aims to enhance connectivity for travellers and boost tourism to the region.

Which locations will be served by the 2025 flight schedule at Heraklion Airport?

The updated flight schedule will include various popular destinations, catering to both leisure and business travellers. Specific details on routes and airlines will be confirmed closer to the beginning of the travel season.

How is Heraklion Airport expanding its capacity for the influx of flights in 2025?

To manage the anticipated rise in flight activity, Heraklion Airport is enhancing its operational capacity. This includes improvements in boarding areas, baggage handling systems, and other essential facilities.

Are there any partnerships with airlines that are increasing flights at Heraklion Airport in 2025?

There are collaborations between Heraklion Airport and several key airlines to facilitate more flight options. These partnerships focus on expanding existing routes and introducing new air services.

What upgrades have been made to the facilities at Heraklion Airport for 2025?

Heraklion Airport has made upgrades to various facilities to accommodate the growing number of passengers. Improvements include enhanced passenger lounges, increased seating areas, and upgraded dining options for travellers.

How will the rise in flights at Heraklion Airport affect local tourism in 2025?

The increase in flight availability is expected to positively impact local tourism by attracting more visitors to the area. This influx of tourists will likely benefit local businesses and contribute to the region’s economic growth.

Oval@3x 2

Don’t miss the daily tips and news about Crete!

We don’t spam! Read our privacy policy for more info.

Leave a Comment

Your email address will not be published. Required fields are marked *

This site uses Akismet to reduce spam. Learn how your comment data is processed.

Crete Tip
Scroll to Top