Kastelli airport: the new airport replacing Heraklion Airport
Kastelli is the new international airport being built about 40 km south-east of Heraklion to replace Heraklion Airport. The official target of early 2027 has slipped; recent reports point to 2028. Until it opens, every Heraklion flight still uses HER.
Why Heraklion Airport needs replacing
Heraklion Airport handled 10,033,151 passengers in 2025 in a terminal hemmed in by the city and the sea, with one runway and no room to grow. The Kastelli project moves the island’s main airport inland to the plateau near Kastelli Pediados, with a new terminal and a longer runway, built and operated under a concession by a Greek-Indian consortium (GEK Terna and GMR).
When will Kastelli airport open?
There is no firm date. The concession targeted early 2027; by October 2025 construction was reported at around 65%, and the airport’s own management has since said end of 2027 or 2028 is more realistic. The most recent reports we found (2026) talk about commercial operations in 2028. We will update this page when a date is officially confirmed.
| Date | Milestone |
|---|---|
| 2020 | Works start after decades of planning |
| Oct 2025 | Construction reported at about 65% |
| 2028 (projected) | Opening and transfer of flights from HER |
What changes for travellers
Distance: Kastelli is further from Heraklion city (about 40 km versus 5 km), so the cheap 15-minute taxi into town will become a 35–45 minute ride on the new road link. For resorts in the east and south (Hersonissos, Malia, Agios Nikolaos, the Lasithi plateau) the difference will be smaller.
The old airport: once Kastelli opens, Heraklion Airport is due to close to commercial traffic, and the site is expected to be redeveloped.
For now: nothing changes. If you are flying in 2026 or 2027, use our guides to the current airport: arrivals, departures and transfers.
Frequently asked questions
When does the new Heraklion airport open?
Kastelli airport is currently projected to open in 2028. No final date has been confirmed.
Where is Kastelli airport?
Near Kastelli Pediados, about 40 km south-east of Heraklion city in central Crete.
Will Heraklion Airport close?
Yes, Heraklion Airport is due to close to commercial flights once Kastelli opens.
Do I fly to Kastelli in 2026?
No. All flights to Heraklion still use the current airport (HER).
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