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Heraklion Airport at Maximum Capacity, Delays Expected This Summer

Thursday, 9 July 2026/SourceCretaOne/1 min read
Heraklion's Nikos Kazantzakis Airport is now handling up to 400 flights and 60,000 passengers on its busiest days, according to airport director Iakövos Ouranos. The airport is operating at or near its maximum capacity, which is contributing to flight delays during peak periods. Travelers flying into or out of Heraklion this summer should expect potential delays, particularly during morning and evening peak hours. Arriving early for departures and checking flight status before heading to the airport is strongly advised. The surge in traffic is driven by increased demand from several key European markets. The situation is expected to ease when the new Kastelli International Airport opens, currently projected for 2028, which will significantly expand air access to eastern Crete and relieve pressure on the existing terminal.

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