Ioannina King Pyrrhus National Airport

Overview

Ioannina National Airport (IATA: IOA, ICAO: LGIO), also known as King Pyrros Airport, is a small regional airport serving the city of Ioannina and the wider region of Epirus in northwestern Greece. Located near the village of Exohi, about 4 kilometers northeast of Ioannina’s city center, the airport sits on a plateau surrounded by the Pindus mountain range and close to the shores of Lake Pamvotida. It is named after Pyrrhus, the ancient Greek king of Epirus known for his military campaigns.

The airport primarily handles domestic flights, with year-round services to Athens operated by Aegean Airlines and Olympic Air, as well as seasonal charter flights connecting Ioannina to several European destinations. Despite its modest size, the airport plays a key role in connecting Epirus to the rest of Greece and beyond, supporting both tourism and local business travelers. During summer months, traffic increases with scheduled and charter arrivals from Germany, the United Kingdom, and other European countries.

Amenities

Ioannina Airport offers a range of essential services and facilities designed for passenger comfort and accessibility. The terminal is compact but functional, with clear signage and helpful staff.

• On-Site Services: The airport provides basic amenities including a waiting area, check-in counters, and a small café/snack bar where passengers can purchase refreshments and light meals before departure or upon arrival. Duty-free shopping is available for departing passengers.
• Baggage Storage: For travelers who need to store luggage temporarily, baggage storage facilities are available at the airport. This can be convenient for those with a layover or waiting for evening flights while exploring Ioannina.
• Accessibility: The airport is committed to accessibility. Features include a wheelchair-accessible car park with designated spaces close to the terminal entrance, a wheelchair-accessible entrance with automatic doors or ramps, and accessible toilets equipped with handrails. The terminal layout is largely level, making navigation easier for passengers with reduced mobility. A wheelchair-accessible toilet is available, and staff can assist with boarding when requested in advance.
• Baby Changing Facilities: A dedicated changing table is provided in the restroom area, making it easier for families traveling with infants.
• Toilets: Clean and well-maintained restrooms are available throughout the terminal.

Peak Hours

According to observed patterns, the busiest times at Ioannina Airport are in the evening, particularly around 8 PM and 9 PM. These peak hours often coincide with the arrival of late-afternoon and early-evening flights from Athens and seasonal charter flights. Passengers traveling during these times should allow extra time for check-in, security screening, and baggage collection. The terminal can become congested, especially in summer when charter traffic increases. For a more relaxed experience, consider arriving outside these hours or booking early morning departures.

The airport is not open all days; operations are generally aligned with flight schedules. Travelers should confirm flight times with their airline and plan to arrive at least 1.5 hours before domestic departures and 2-3 hours before international flights.

Contact Information

• Website: Official Airport Page
• Phone: +30 2651 083600 (extension 83602)

The website, managed by the Hellenic Civil Aviation Authority (HCAA), provides up-to-date flight information, weather conditions, and airport news. The phone line can be used for general inquiries, though it is best for basic questions about airport services and operations.

Regional Role

Ioannina Airport serves as the main air gateway for Epirus, a region known for its dramatic mountain landscapes, traditional villages, and historical sites such as the ancient Oracle of Dodona. The airport facilitates access to Ioannina city itself, with its well-preserved Ottoman-era castle, lake and island, and vibrant university scene. Beyond tourism, the airport is vital for connectivity: residents and businesses rely on it for direct flights to Athens, avoiding long road journeys. The airport also supports medical evacuations and emergency services.

In summer, seasonal flights bring European visitors directly to Epirus, bypassing the need to fly into Thessaloniki or Athens and drive. This direct access has helped boost local tourism to destinations like Zagori, Metsovo, and the Vikos Gorge. While the airport is small, its role in regional development and accessibility cannot be overstated.