Heraklion’s New Kastelli Airport: Construction Passes 40% Mark on Path to its Opening

As Crete’s tourism continues to soar, with 9.2 million passengers passing through Heraklion’s current airport in 2024 alone, the island’s ambitious new Kastelli Airport project is rapidly advancing. Recent updates from January 2025 confirm construction has surpassed 40% completion, marking a significant milestone in what will become Greece’s second-largest airport.

Current Progress and Timeline

In December 2024, Prime Minister Kyriakos Mitsotakis confirmed the airport will be operational by February 2027. The project’s scope has expanded significantly from its initial €500 million estimate to a comprehensive €1 billion investment, with several key components showing notable progress:

• Terminal building’s structural framework is over 90% complete
• The 3,200-meter runway is 43% finished
• The control tower is taking shape with 10% completion
• The apron area has reached 29% completion

A Future-Proof Design

The new Kastelli airport’s expanded design reflects a bold vision for Crete’s future, with Prime Minister Mitsotakis emphasizing, “This isn’t an airport for the next ten years. It’s built for the next fifty.” The increased scope and budget are attributed to three key factors:

• Expanded design to accommodate long-term growth
• Enhanced infrastructure for access roads and VOAK highway connectivity
• Additional measures to protect unexpected archaeological discoveries

The facility will incorporate state-of-the-art features prioritizing both efficiency and sustainability:

• A sprawling 93,572 square meter terminal building
• 19 boarding gates, including 8 flexible gates for both Schengen and non-Schengen flights
• Advanced hydrant fueling system
• Self-sufficient energy production system focused on minimizing CO2 emissions
• Comprehensive passenger amenities including entertainment, dining, and family support facilities

Strategic Location and Connectivity

A crucial development announced in January 2025 is the scheduled signing of the VOAK Highway contract (Chania-Heraklion-Hersonissos section) in early 2025. This vital infrastructure project will ensure:

• Just 25 minutes travel time from Heraklion via the new highway
• First major north-south connection on the island
• Enhanced accessibility to the Messara Valley, Ierapetra, and Tympaki
• Improved connections to Chania, Rethymno, and Sitia

Economic and Tourism Impact

The project represents more than just an infrastructure upgrade; it’s a strategic investment in Crete’s future. With Crete contributing 26% of Greece’s total tourism turnover as of early 2025, second only to the Southern Aegean region’s 27%, the new airport is designed to accommodate initial traffic of 10 million passengers annually, with capacity to expand to 18 million during the concession period. The Greek state maintains a 46% share in this landmark project, with the remaining 54% held by the Ariadne Airport Group consortium.

Looking Ahead

With its scheduled opening on February 6, 2027, the new Kastelli Airport promises to be more than just a transportation hub – it represents a new chapter in Crete’s development. The project’s emphasis on sustainability, combined with its strategic location and modern amenities, positions it to become the Mediterranean’s most advanced airport facility.

Watch the Progress

Published on: February 11th, 2025

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