โฐ Minimum Connection Times
Domestic โ Domestic
30
minutes
Domestic โ International
60
minutes
Interline Connections
90
minutes
๐ข Terminal Information
Kastoria National Airport "Aristotelis" (KSO) is a significant regional aviation facility located in Argos Orestiko, approximately 12 kilometers from the city of Kastoria in Western Macedonia, Greece. The airport is currently undergoing a comprehensive modernization phase, which includes the construction of a new, state-of-the-art air traffic control tower. Funded by the regional budget and initiated in 2025, these infrastructure upgrades aim to elevate the facility to modern international standards and support its role as a key gateway to Northern Greece.
The existing passenger terminal, which spans roughly 1,000 square meters, provides a functional and efficient environment for travelers navigating domestic routes. Inside, the facility offers essential check-in and security screening services, a modest waiting hall, and basic amenities. As the airport is included in a national government program for regional airport safety, it is also benefiting from a modernized firefighting fleet and additional specialized staff to enhance operational stability, particularly during the challenging winter months common to this mountainous region.
Ground operations at Aristotelis Airport are centered around a 2,698-meter asphalt runway (12/30), capable of servicing medium-to-large aircraft, including the turboprops used by regional carriers like Sky Express for connections to Athens and Kozani. The airport's proximity to Argos Orestikoโjust 0.5 kilometers awayโensures easy access for local travelers, with dedicated taxi services and public bus links available to transport passengers to the wider Kastoria area. These developments are part of a broader Greek initiative to modernize 22 regional airports through private-public partnerships, ensuring long-term sustainability and improved passenger comfort.
๐ Connection Tips
Kastoria National Airport (KSO), officially known as 'Aristotelis,' is a vital regional aviation gateway situated in Argos Orestiko, serving the Western Macedonia region of Greece. Ground transportation is well-managed, with the city of Kastoria located approximately 12 kilometers to the north; authorized taxis are available outside arrivals for the short 15-to-20-minute transit, though carrying local cash (EUR) is essential. Arriving at the airport at least 90 minutes before your departure is sufficient to navigate the manual check-in process comfortably. KSO remains a professional and increasingly important node for the region's prominent fur trade and tourism sectors.
For travelers, a standout feature is the airport's 2025 modernization project, which is introducing a new state-of-the-art air traffic control tower and significantly upgrading the terminalโs technical infrastructure. For those needing car rentals, it is mandatory to pre-arrange pickup at the terminal, as on-demand availability is extremely limited. A significant operational factor is the mountainous terrain; winter weather can lead to short-notice schedule adjustments on the 2,698-meter runway.
Commercial service is headlined by Sky Express, providing essential domestic non-stops to Athens (ATH). Within the compact terminal, amenities are functional but basic, featuring a modest waiting hall and a snack buffet that typically operates only during flight windows. Always confirm your flight status via the airlineโs app.
โฐ Minimum Connection Times
Domestic โ Domestic
35
minutes
Domestic โ International
60
minutes
International โ Domestic
60
minutes
International โ International
75
minutes
Interline Connections
90
minutes
๐ข Terminal Information
Karpathos Island National Airport (AOK) operates with a single, modern terminal building that was inaugurated in 2009 after a significant expansion. Covering an area of 12,500 square meters, the terminal is designed to handle the airport's mix of domestic and international flights, the latter of which are predominantly seasonal, peaking during the busy summer tourist months. The single-story building is relatively easy to navigate, which is a boon for travelers during peak times.
Inside the terminal, passengers have access to a range of essential amenities. For last-minute shopping or souvenirs, a duty-free shop is available, offering a selection of perfumes, cosmetics, tobacco, spirits, and local Greek products. For refreshments, there is a cafe/snack bar providing light meals, sandwiches, and beverages. Several car rental agencies, including both local and international brands, have desks within the arrivals area, allowing for convenient vehicle pick-up upon arrival.
Transportation to and from the airport is facilitated by several options. Public buses connect the airport with Pigadia, the island's capital, and other key locations, offering an economical way to travel. Taxis are readily available from a rank located just outside the terminal building, providing a more direct and private transfer option. For those who have rented a car, a parking area is situated conveniently close to the terminal entrance.
Despite its international status, AOK is a relatively small airport and does not have dedicated airline lounges. Other passenger services include an information desk, an ATM for cash withdrawals, and currency exchange services. A notable characteristic of the airport is its exposure to the strong 'meltemi' winds, particularly during the summer. Passengers are often advised to be cautious on the apron when boarding or deplaning via stairs, as the winds can be quite powerful.
๐ Connection Tips
Karpathos Airport (LGKP/AOK) serves as the primary gateway to this remote Dodecanese island, located approximately 13 kilometers from Pigadia, the island's capital and main ferry port. Transportation options from the airport include taxi services, which provide the quickest and most reliable connection to Pigadia, typically taking 15 minutes and costing between โฌ20-30 depending on destination and time of day. Taxis are readily available outside the terminal building with generally fixed fare structures, though it's advisable to confirm the price before departure, especially during peak tourist season. Public bus service availability from the airport varies depending on seasonal schedules and current operations. While some services may connect the airport directly with Pigadia, travelers should verify current bus schedules at the airport information desk or with their accommodation, as service can be irregular during off-season periods.
If available, buses provide an economical alternative for reaching the capital, where connections to other island villages including Olympos, Arkassa, and Mesochori can be made. For travelers planning to explore multiple Dodecanese islands, Pigadia serves as the ferry terminal with connections to Rhodes (3-4. 5 hour journey), Athens Piraeus (13-20 hours depending on route), Crete (Heraklion and Sitia), Santorini, Anafi, and Kasos. Ferry schedules are seasonal, with more frequent services during summer months. Transportation from AOK to Pigadia ferry terminal takes approximately 15 minutes by taxi, allowing adequate time for onward connections with proper planning.
For air connections, most domestic flights route through Athens (ATH) with Aegean Airlines, Olympic Air, and Sky Express providing regular services. International travelers connecting through Athens should allow minimum 90 minutes for domestic connections, though 2-3 hours is recommended during peak periods to account for potential delays and security procedures. Summer months bring direct charter flights from various European cities, reducing connection requirements. Car rental services are available at the airport for independent exploration, with several agencies maintaining desks in the arrivals area.
โ Back to Kastoria National Airport Aristotle