Chania International Airport

Chania International Airport "Ioannis Daskalogiannis" is not merely a transport hub, but a true gateway to the world of Western Crete, where the pink sands of Elafonisi and the Venetian harbour await travellers. Located on the scenic Akrotiri peninsula, it welcomes guests with views of Souda Bay and the scents of Mediterranean herbs. Named after a hero of the Cretan revolt, this airport combines modern comfort with unique Greek charm, setting the mood for a holiday from the very first minute.

Chania Airport has undergone extensive modernisation under the management of Fraport Greece, making the terminal significantly more spacious and convenient. Here, travellers can find a Hellenic Duty Free shop with an excellent selection of local products — from olive oil to traditional Cretan cheeses, allowing for last-minute souvenir shopping. The air harbour is also renowned for its convenient transport connections: regular KTEL buses and numerous car rental desks make starting your journey across the island quick and easy.

For the most up-to-date information regarding flights, services, and airport regulations, we recommend contacting official channels. Below are the main contact details for Chania International Airport "Ioannis Daskalogiannis" (CHQ).

• Official Website: www.chq-airport.gr
• Information Desk Phone: +30 28210 83800
• Address: Chania International Airport "Ioannis Daskalogiannis", 73100, Chania, Crete, Greece
• Email: General enquiries can be sent via the address listed on the official website in the contacts section.
• Social Media: The airport is managed by Fraport Greece; current information can be found on their official social media pages.
• Lost Luggage Information: For issues regarding lost or damaged luggage, you should primarily contact your airline's representative or the ground handling agent servicing them. Contact details for services (Skyserv, Goldair Handling) are available on the airport website.
• Passenger Support Contacts: For general information and support, you can use the main airport telephone number: +30 28210 83800.

Chania International Airport (CHQ) is located approximately 14 kilometres from the city centre of Chania, on the Akrotiri peninsula. There are several convenient ways to get from the airport to the city and back, suitable for any budget and travel style.

Public Transport is the most economical option. KTEL buses run between the airport and Chania's central bus station. The journey takes approximately 30 minutes, and the ticket price is the lowest among all options. Bus schedules are generally linked to flight arrival and departure times; however, intervals may increase during the off-peak season, so it is recommended to check current information in advance.

For greater comfort and speed, you can use a taxi or book a transfer. The taxi rank is located directly outside the arrivals terminal exit. The trip to the city centre will take about 20–25 minutes, and the cost will be approximately 25–35 Euros. A pre-booked transfer can be even more convenient, as the driver will meet you with a name sign, assist with luggage, and take you directly to your hotel for a fixed price.

Car Rental is a popular choice among tourists planning to actively explore the island of Crete. Offices of many international and local rental companies are located within the airport building. This allows you to collect a car immediately upon arrival and not depend on public transport throughout your holiday. The road to Chania is simple and well-signposted. For those arriving at the airport in their own car, paid parking with zones for short-term and long-term stays is available.

Thus, the choice of transport depends on your preferences: the bus is ideal for budget travellers, a taxi for those valuing comfort, and a rental car for those desiring freedom of movement across beautiful Greece. If you are planning a trip to other islands, consider flights from neighbouring airports, such as Heraklion Airport or Santorini International Airport.

Chania International Airport "Ioannis Daskalogiannis" (CHQ) is a compact and functional airport that handles all passenger flights within a single terminal. Thanks to this, navigation is intuitive, and you will not have to worry about transferring between different buildings. All infrastructure — from check-in counters to boarding gates — is located under one roof.

The terminal building is logically divided into arrival and departure zones. The Departures Zone is located on the main level. Immediately after entering, you find yourself in the general hall with airline check-in counters. After checking in and dropping off luggage, passengers proceed to pre-flight security screening. After security control, you will find yourself in the "airside" area with Duty Free shops, small cafes, and boarding gates. It is worth noting that during the peak tourist season (June to August), the airport can be heavily congested, and space in the waiting lounge is limited.

The Arrivals Zone is located in a separate part of the terminal. After disembarking, passengers follow signs to the baggage claim area and passport control (for flights from non-Schengen countries). The arrivals hall houses car rental counters, ATMs, and the exit to the taxi rank and bus stop, from where you can reach Chania and other resorts in Greece.

To complete all formalities comfortably, it is recommended to arrive at the airport well in advance. In summer months, check-in and security screening can take 1.5 to 2 hours due to long queues. During the rest of the year, procedures are significantly faster. Despite its modest size, navigation in the airport is simple — follow the electronic boards and signs to easily find the required gate or service.

The history of Chania International Airport (CHQ) did not begin as a civil facility. Initially, it was the Souda military airfield, which continues to serve as an Air Force base for Greece today. It was opened for civil aviation needs in 1959, which served as a powerful impetus for the development of tourism throughout western Crete. Initially, passenger flights were serviced in a modest, small building.

An important milestone was the construction of the first proper passenger terminal in 1967. This allowed for a significant increase in capacity. However, the airport acquired true international status in 1974, when the first flight from abroad was operated. Since then, the region's popularity began to grow rapidly, and the old terminal could no longer cope with the flow of tourists.

In 1996, the airport underwent a massive reconstruction, resulting in the construction of a new, modern terminal with an area of 14,000 square metres. This allowed it to handle up to 1.5 million passengers per year and service flights of major European airlines. The official name of the airport — "Ioannis Daskalogiannis" — is a tribute to the leader of the anti-Ottoman revolt in Crete in the 18th century, which is an interesting historical fact.

The latest major modernisation was carried out in 2017–2018 after the airport came under the management of Fraport Greece. The departure and arrival zones were expanded and renovated, the number of check-in counters and boarding gates was increased, and the general infrastructure was improved. Today, Chania Airport is a modern and busy transport hub, which receives hundreds of charter and scheduled flights during the summer season, remaining a key access point to the famous beaches and attractions of western Crete.

Chania International Airport (CHQ) offers passengers all necessary amenities for a comfortable wait for their flight. If you are hungry, there are several cafes and restaurants at your service where you can have a quick sandwich or a full meal, enjoying dishes of Greek and European cuisine. In the Duty Free shops, you will find a standard assortment of perfumery, confectionery, and tobacco products, while souvenir shops offer local delicacies, olive oil, and handmade items to take home as memories.

For those who value enhanced comfort, business lounges operate at the airport. Access can be granted to business class passengers or holders of certain loyalty cards, as well as for a separate fee. Here you can relax in a quiet atmosphere, enjoying complimentary snacks and beverages. Free Wi-Fi is available throughout the terminal, and special stands and sockets in waiting areas are provided for charging gadgets.

The terminal houses ATMs and currency exchange points where financial matters can be settled before departure. To ensure passenger safety and health, a first aid station is available. Travellers with small children can use the mother and baby rooms, equipped with everything necessary for infant care.

Chania Airport provides services for passengers with reduced mobility. To receive assistance with check-in, security control, and boarding, it is recommended to notify your airline in advance. The terminal building features ramps and specially equipped restrooms. Although there are no hotels on the airport grounds, many accommodation options to suit any taste and budget are located in the immediate vicinity. There are no specialised conference rooms at the airport, but basic business services, such as internet access and work zones, can be found in the VIP lounges.

At Chania International Airport (CHQ), travellers will find several options for a snack or a full meal, although the selection is not as extensive as in major European hubs. Dining establishments are conveniently located both before and after the security zone, offering passengers a chance to satisfy their hunger before departure.

The majority of cafes and snack bars are located after security control, in the departures area (airside). Here you can find establishments of well-known Greek chains serving coffee, sandwiches, salads, and fresh pastries. In the general area, before security control (landside), there are also cafes where you can enjoy a cup of coffee or a snack while seeing off or meeting passengers. These places are excellent if you have arrived at the airport well in advance.

Be sure to try something from the local cuisine. Cafes often offer traditional Greek pies, such as spanakopita (with spinach filling) or tiropita (with feta cheese). This is an excellent, filling, and authentic option for a quick snack. Of course, lovers of classics will always find sandwiches, croissants, and various desserts. Don't forget to order the cold coffee popular in Greece — frappe or freddo espresso.

For passengers with special dietary preferences, choices may be limited. Vegetarians will easily find the aforementioned vegetable or cheese pies and fresh salads. For those requiring Halal or vegan options, choices may be more restricted, so it is recommended to verify ingredients directly with the staff. The price range at the airport is generally higher than the city average. Most establishments operate according to the flight schedule, opening early in the morning and closing after the last plane departs, especially during the high tourist season.

To ensure your journey through Chania Airport goes as smoothly as possible, make use of our tips. A little planning will help avoid stress and save time, especially during the height of the tourist season.

Arrival Time: We recommend arriving at the airport at least 2-3 hours before an international flight and 1.5-2 hours before a domestic one. In summer, the airport can be heavily congested, so a buffer of time is always helpful.

Check-in and Security: Whenever possible, use online check-in — this will save you time in queues at the counters. When passing through security control, prepare your electronic devices in advance and pack all liquids up to 100 ml in a single transparent bag. This is a standard procedure that will speed up the screening process.

Seat Selection: Want to enjoy the last views of Crete from above? Choose a window seat. If comfort, the ability to stretch your legs, and standing up freely without disturbing neighbours are more important to you, then your ideal seat is by the aisle.

Hand Luggage: Remember the restrictions on carrying liquids. If you wish to bring olive oil or local honey in containers larger than 100 ml as a souvenir, they must be checked in. Each airline has its own rules regarding the size and weight of hand luggage; be sure to check them on the carrier's website before leaving for the airport.

Connecting Passengers: Chania International Airport mainly serves direct flights. If you do have a transit flight planned, verify in advance whether your luggage will be transferred automatically or if you will need to collect and re-check it. Allow sufficient time between connecting flights.

Customs Control: Customs procedures for flights within the Schengen zone are minimal. If you are flying outside the EU, you may use the Tax-Free system for goods purchased in Greece. To do this, keep your receipts and visit the special counter before passport control.

Saving Time and Money: Bring an empty reusable bottle and fill it with water at drinking fountains after the security zone. Prices for snacks and drinks at the airport are traditionally higher than in the city. Taxis from the airport can be pricey; consider the public bus option or book a transfer online in advance.

In Case of Flight Delay: First, contact your airline representative for current information. Remember that when departing from EU countries, your rights are protected by EU Regulation 261, which may provide for meals, beverages, and even hotel accommodation depending on the length of the delay. While waiting, you can visit the cafes or Duty Free shops.