Karpathos Airport

Overview

Karpathos Airport (also known as Karpathos Island National Airport) serves the island of Karpathos, part of the Dodecanese archipelago in the southeastern Aegean Sea. It is a modest regional airport primarily used by seasonal charter flights during the summer months, alongside some domestic services connecting the island to Athens and other Greek hubs. The airport handles a mix of tourists arriving for beach holidays and locals travelling to and from the mainland. Given the island's popularity for windsurfing, hiking, and traditional culture, the airport sees a significant influx of visitors from June to September. Outside peak season, flight schedules are limited, and the airport may operate only on specific days when flights are scheduled.

Location & Access

Karpathos Airport is situated on the eastern side of the island, approximately 13 kilometres south of the main town and port of Pigadia. The airport is close to the village of Aperi, which overlooks the coast. Access to the airport is via a single road that runs along the eastern shore, connecting Pigadia to the southern villages and beaches. Travellers arriving at the airport can reach Pigadia by taxi or rental car in about 15–20 minutes. The island has a good network of paved roads, though some mountainous routes in the north are winding. Buses are limited and may not align with all flight arrivals, so pre-booking a transfer or renting a car is advisable. The airport's location makes it convenient for those staying in Pigadia or the southern resorts, but visitors heading to the remote northern village of Olympos (about 60 km away) should allow nearly two hours of driving. There is no direct public transport from the airport; passengers typically rely on taxis, rental cars, or pre-arranged hotel shuttles.

Facilities

Karpathos Airport is a small terminal with basic amenities. Confirmed facilities include a free parking lot with spaces for short and long stays. The car park is wheelchair accessible, as is the entrance to the terminal building. Inside, passengers will find accessible toilets equipped with handrails and a changing table for infants. The airport provides wheelchair-accessible facilities throughout, ensuring ease of movement for travellers with mobility needs. There is no confirmed presence of a restaurant or café, but vending machines may be available for snacks and drinks. Duty-free shopping is not a feature of this airport, so any last-minute purchases should be made in Pigadia before heading to the terminal. The check-in area is compact, and security screening is efficient but can become crowded during peak hours (around 10–11 am, when multiple departures are scheduled). Passengers are advised to arrive at least two hours before scheduled departures to allow time for check-in and security.

About the Region

Karpathos is the second-largest island in the Dodecanese, after Rhodes, and lies between Crete and Rhodes. The island is known for its dramatic mountainous landscape, with the highest peak, Mount Lastos, reaching over 1,200 metres. The northern part of the island is particularly rugged, with traditional villages like Olympos and Spoa that have preserved local customs, dress, and dialect. Olympos is famous for its women in traditional embroidered clothing and its stone-built houses. The southern and eastern coasts offer sandy beaches, clear waters, and popular windsurfing spots such as Afoti and Chicken Bay. The island's economy relies heavily on tourism, but agriculture (olives, grapes) and fishing also play a role. Karpathos has a distinct cultural identity, with festivals and religious celebrations throughout the year. The airport's role in connecting this relatively remote island is vital for both tourism and the local population.

Practical Information

• Address and Contact: The airport is located in Aperi, Karpathos, 857 00, Greece. The telephone number is +30 2245 091049. As of publication, the airport does not maintain a public website; passengers can contact the airport authority or their airline directly for up-to-date flight information.
• Operating Hours: The airport is not open 24/7. Its opening hours correspond to scheduled flight times, which are primarily from late morning to early afternoon in summer. During winter, flights are sporadic, and the terminal may only open a couple of hours before a departure. Check with your airline for specific opening times on your travel date.
• Parking: Free parking is available directly in front of the terminal. The lot is not large, so during peak season it may fill up quickly. Parking is informal and unguarded; travellers should avoid leaving valuables in their vehicles.
• Accessibility: The airport is fully wheelchair accessible, with designated parking, level entrance, and accessible toilets. Assistance is available upon request, but it is advisable to notify your airline in advance if you require special help.
• Nearby Services: The nearest town for supplies or dining is Pigadia, about 13 km north, where there are supermarkets, restaurants, and accommodation options. The village of Aperi has a few basic shops but no major services near the airport itself.