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
Single terminal (22,150 sqm, built 2008) capacity 1.9 million passengers/year. Recent upgrades: automated check-in kiosks, advanced baggage screening, apron expansion. Six dining options (restaurants/cafes), duty-free shops, SIM card shop.
Two ATMs, two charging stations, free WiFi throughout. Free parking, aid station, first-aid facilities, lost property service. Operated by Fraport Greece.
9th busiest in Greece (2024), 6.8% traffic increase. Runway resurfacing project Nov 2025-Mar 2026 with temporary closures. Seasonal operations peak summer for Ionian tourism.
๐ Connection Tips
Zakynthos International Airport (ZTH), also known as 'Dionysios Solomos,' operates from a single passenger terminal, making the transit process physically straightforward. KTEL public buses connect the airport to Zakynthos Town in about 20 minutes, while taxis and pre-booked private transfers offer faster options to the various island resorts. This means late-night connections are not possible, and any delays could result in an overnight stay. Security at ZTH follows standard EU regulations. Passengers should be prepared to remove electronics and liquids (which must be in 100ml containers) for inspection.
During the peak summer season (June to September), queues for check-in and security can be significant due to the high volume of leisure charters. While no inter-terminal transfers are required, the terminal is divided into distinct Schengen and Non-Schengen zones. The terminal provides free Wi-Fi, several cafes, and duty-free shops, though amenities are tailored for holiday travelers rather than long layovers. Ground transportation is located just outside the arrivals hall.
A unique operational constraint at ZTH is the night-time flight restriction; to protect the endangered Caretta caretta sea turtles that nest on nearby Kalamaki beach, aircraft movements are prohibited between 10:00 PM and 5:00 AM. It is strongly recommended to allow at least 2 hours for Schengen or domestic connections and 3 hours for non-Schengen international departures. For travelers connecting from a domestic Greek flight to an international non-Schengen destination, you must proceed through passport control and a secondary security check. Always monitor the flight information screens for gate updates, especially during the busy morning and afternoon departure banks.
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 Zakynthos International Airport Dionysios Solomos