Crete: Construction of Kastelli Airport Advances Rapidly

The construction of Crete’s new international airport of Heraklion in the Kastelli area is progressing swiftly, with 40 percent of the project already completed, according to Greek Transport Minister Christos Staikouras.

During a recent visit to the site, Staikouras noted that construction had reached 31 percent just a few months prior. “Now it is over 40 percent, showing that we are moving faster and are on track to deliver the airport within the planned timeframe,” he stated. The new airport is expected to be completed by 2027.

Staikouras highlighted that one of the main challenges has been connecting the A90 motorway—also known as the northern road axis of Crete (BOAK)—to the airport. “During the execution of such large projects, it is natural for new challenges, needs, and priorities to arise, especially regarding air navigation and the connection of the northern road axis of Crete with the airport. For this reason, we have systematically set specific timelines and policy initiatives that must be addressed immediately.”

Kastelli Airport Overview

Led by the construction firm GEK Terna, the Kastelli Airport project includes the construction of the terminal, runways, auxiliary facilities, and parking areas.

According to an update from the Heraklion Airport Authority, 29 percent of the terminal has been completed, with work progressing to the roof level. The runway is 43 percent complete, while 29 percent of the apron has also been finished. Pavement work is advancing rapidly to connect the airport with Crete’s main north-south road axes (BOAK and NOAK), reducing travel time to Heraklion to just 25 minutes.

Additionally, the control tower is 10 percent complete and is “quickly taking shape,” according to airport representatives. Work on the substation and biological treatment facilities is also underway.

 A landmark project for the Greek aviation

Scheduled for completion in February 2027, the new Kastelli Airport will replace Heraklion’s “Nikos Kazantzakis” Airport and is considered a landmark project by the Greek Infrastructure and Transport Ministry, designed to meet Crete’s growing tourism demands.

According to the ministry, Heraklion Airport is expected to handle 9.2 million passengers in 2024, representing a 7 percent increase from 2023, which constitutes 20 percent of Greece’s overall tourist traffic.

Funded at 500 million euros, the new airport is the largest ongoing project in Greece. Once completed, it will be the country’s second-newest airport and is projected to reduce travel times for passengers from Chania, Rethymno, and Sitia while also enhancing road safety. Initial estimates suggest it will serve 10 million passengers, with a peak capacity exceeding 18 million.

The airport will feature 19 boarding gates, eight of which will accommodate both Schengen and non-Schengen flights. Additional facilities will include entertainment, leisure, dining, prayer, and family support services, ensuring a comfortable travel experience.

With a strong emphasis on sustainability, the airport will generate its own energy, aiming to minimize its CO2 footprint.