Ioannina Airport

Ioannina National Airport "King Pyrrhus" (IOA) is the air gateway to the amazing region of Epirus in northwestern Greece. Named after the legendary ancient ruler, the airport serves as a starting point for journeys to the picturesque Lake Pamvotis, the Pindus Mountains, and the famous stone villages of Zagori. Founded in 1932, it combines the compactness of a regional hub with a vital role in the country's transport system, hosting both domestic and seasonal international flights.

The main advantage of "King Pyrrhus" Airport is its compactness and convenience. The small terminal allows passengers to quickly go through all pre-flight and post-flight formalities, avoiding the long queues and hustle characteristic of major air hubs. Everything necessary for a comfortable wait is available here: a café, a duty-free shop, an ATM, and car rental offices. Thanks to its strategic location just a 10-15 minute drive from the city centre, the airport is an ideal starting point for exploring the cultural and natural treasures of Ioannina and the entire Epirus region.

For the most up-to-date information on flights, services, and Ioannina Airport regulations, we recommend using official communication channels. Below are the main contact details.

• Official Website: Always current information regarding schedules, services, and airport news is available on the official website: www.ioa-airport.gr.
• Information Desk Phone: For inquiries by phone, you can call the airport information centre: +30 26510 83600.
• Airport Address: The airport is located at: National Road Ioannina - Dodoni, Ioannina 455 00, Greece.
• Email: For general inquiries, you can use the contact form on the official website or write to the general e-mail of the operator Fraport Greece: info@fraport-greece.com.
• Social Media: News and updates are published on the official social media pages of the operating company, Fraport Greece.
• Lost Luggage Information: For issues regarding lost or damaged luggage, please contact your airline's representative at the airport directly. Contact details for a specific carrier's baggage tracing service are usually found on their official website.
• Passenger Support Service: For general questions related to your stay at the airport, you can contact the information desk by phone or via the feedback form on the website.

Ioannina National Airport "King Pyrrhus" (IOA) is conveniently located just 4-5 kilometres from the city centre, so you can get there quickly using several methods. The choice depends on your budget, time, and comfort preferences.

Public Transport: The most economical way is the city bus. Route No. 2 runs regularly between the city centre and the airport. This is an excellent option for those travelling light. The trip usually takes about 20-30 minutes, including stops, and the ticket cost is minimal. Please check the schedule in advance, as the frequency of trips may change depending on the season.

Taxi and Transfer: The fastest and most convenient way to reach the terminal is to take a taxi. The trip from the city centre will take just 10-15 minutes. This is the ideal choice if you have a lot of luggage, are travelling with children, or are simply in a hurry for your flight. The cost of the trip will be significantly higher than the bus, but it ensures comfort and "door-to-door" delivery. You can also pre-book a private transfer that will pick you up directly from your hotel.

Car Rental and Parking: If you plan to actively explore the Epirus region and the picturesque corners of northern Greece, renting a car will be an excellent solution. Most major rental companies have desks both at the airport and in the city, allowing you to return the car before departure without issues. For those arriving at the airport in a private or rented car, there is a parking lot on the premises offering both short-term and long-term parking options.

Ioannina Airport (IOA), also known as "King Pyrrhus" National Airport, is a small regional airport, which makes navigating it extremely simple and clear. If you are used to huge international hubs, you will be pleasantly surprised by its compactness and speed of service.

The airport operates one passenger terminal, which serves both domestic and international flights (mainly seasonal and charter). The terminal building is a single space where all key zones are within walking distance of each other. This means you won't have to worry about transfers between terminals or searching for the right boarding gate for a long time.

The terminal layout is intuitive. Immediately upon entry, you find yourself in the general area where check-in counters and airline representatives are located. Departure and arrival zones are clearly separated but situated in the same building. After checking in for a flight, passengers pass through a single security checkpoint, followed by a small waiting hall with boarding gates. The arrival area with baggage claim belts is also located here, making the process of retrieving suitcases fast and convenient.

Due to the small size of the airport, completing all pre-flight formalities, including check-in and security screening, usually takes little time. Nevertheless, during the peak tourist season (summer months), it is recommended to arrive at the airport generally 1.5-2 hours before departure to avoid rushing. At other times, all procedures can be completed much faster. Navigation will not cause difficulties: there are signs in Greek and English everywhere, and staff are always ready to help.

Ioannina Airport (IOA), officially known as "King Pyrrhus" National Airport, serves as the main air gateway to the picturesque Epirus region in northwestern Greece. Its history is closely linked to the development of tourism and infrastructure in this mountainous part of the country.

Founded in 1932, the airport began operations as a small airfield with a grass runway. In the early decades, it served mainly sparse civil and military flights, remaining a modest infrastructure facility.

A key stage of development was the post-war period. In 1953, the first asphalt runway was built, allowing for the reception of larger types of aircraft. This laid the foundation for regular air traffic. The next important milestone was the construction of a small passenger terminal in 1965, which made travel to Ioannina more accessible and comfortable.

The most significant modernization in the airport's history occurred quite recently. In 2017, management of the facility was transferred to Fraport Greece, which initiated a large-scale reconstruction. The works, completed in 2019, included the construction of a new modern terminal covering 12,500 sq. m, the erection of a new control tower, expansion of the apron, and renovation of the runway. These improvements transformed it into a modern and efficient transport hub, ready for passenger traffic growth.

Interesting fact: the airport bears the name of King Pyrrhus, the famous ruler of ancient Epirus, highlighting the rich history of the region. Thanks to its location by Lake Pamvotis, landing at Ioannina airport offers passengers breathtaking views, considered some of the most beautiful in Greece. Today, the airport is a vital link connecting this unique region with the rest of the country and the world.

Ioannina "King Pyrrhus" Airport (IOA) is a small but functional regional airport serving Epirus, a scenic region in northwestern Greece. Despite its compact size, it offers passengers all necessary amenities for a comfortable wait for their flight.

For those wishing to have a snack or drink coffee, a small café operates within the terminal. Here you can order light snacks, sandwiches, pastries, and beverages. There is also a Duty-Free shop at the airport where you can purchase perfumes, alcohol, tobacco products, as well as Greek souvenirs and local delicacies.

The departure hall features a general waiting area with ample seating. There are no dedicated VIP lounges at the airport. Passengers can use free Wi-Fi throughout the terminal. Power outlets are available for charging electronic devices, but their number may be limited, so it is recommended to carry a portable power bank.

Financial services are represented by an ATM where you can withdraw cash. There is no currency exchange office in the airport building, so it is better to arrange money exchange in the city beforehand. In case of necessity, passengers can receive first aid — for this, please contact airport staff.

For travellers with small children, baby changing tables are equipped in the restrooms. Passengers with reduced mobility are provided with necessary assistance for moving around the terminal and boarding. It is recommended to book this service in advance through your airline. There are no specialized business centres or conference rooms at the airport. Hotels are also absent on the airport territory itself, however, many accommodation options can be found in the city of Ioannina, which is easily accessible by taxi in 10-15 minutes.

When planning a departure from Ioannina Airport (IOA), it is important to consider that this is a small regional airport, and the choice of dining establishments here reflects that. Unlike major international hubs, there isn't a wide variety of restaurants, but getting a snack or coffee before a flight is entirely possible.

The main place for dining at the airport is the café-bar, located in the main hall of the single terminal, in the area before security control (landside). Here, passengers can find a standard assortment for a quick bite: fresh pastries, sandwiches, salads, as well as hot and cold beverages, including coffee and tea. The café's operating hours are generally tied to the flight schedule: it opens before the first departure and closes after the last plane leaves.

Despite the limited selection, you can find notes of local cuisine here. Pay attention to traditional Greek pies, such as tiropita (with cheese) or spanakopita (with spinach). This is an excellent option for a hearty and authentic snack, allowing you to taste Greece one last time before leaving. Prices here are moderately high, as in most airports around the world.

Regarding special dietary needs, choices will be limited. Vegetarians will be able to find pastries with spinach or vegetable sandwiches. However, finding certified gluten-free, vegan, or Halal dishes will be challenging. If you have strict dietary restrictions, it is recommended to bring food with you or have a full meal at one of the numerous restaurants in Ioannina before travelling to the airport.

To ensure your journey through Ioannina Airport (IOA), also known as King Pyrrhus Airport, goes as smoothly as possible, use these tips. It is a small regional airport, so navigating it is quite simple, but proper preparation never hurts.

Arrival Time: For domestic flights within Greece or flights to Schengen zone countries, it is recommended to arrive at the airport 1.5–2 hours before departure. At the height of the tourist season (July-August), it is better to add another half hour in case of queues. Registration and security control procedures here usually go faster than in major hubs.

Check-in and Security: To save time, check in for your flight online and save the boarding pass on your phone. If you need to check luggage, the check-in counters operate without haste. Security control is standard: be ready to take out electronic devices, and pack all liquids up to 100 ml in one transparent bag.

Seat Selection: The Epirus region is famous for its picturesque landscapes. Try to get a window seat. When taking off from Ioannina or landing, you may see stunning views of Lake Pamvotis and the surrounding mountains. Try to study your flight route in advance to choose the side with the best view.

Hand Luggage: Standard rules apply here as well. You can take laptops, documents, personal items, and liquids in containers up to 100 ml into the cabin. Sharp objects, weapons, and flammable substances are prohibited. Always check the exact hand luggage and baggage allowance on your airline's website.

Transfer Passengers: Ioannina Airport serves mainly direct flights. If you are flying with a self-transfer (for example, in Athens), allow enough time between flights (at least 3-4 hours). You will likely need to collect your luggage, check in again, and pass through security control.

Customs Control: Since most flights are operated within the Schengen zone, passport and customs control as such is absent. If you are arriving from a non-Schengen country or flying to one, the procedure will be standard. Familiarise yourself with the customs regulations of the destination country in advance.

Saving Time and Money: Online check-in is the best way to save time. To save money, bring an empty reusable bottle with you and fill it with water after passing security control. Café options at the airport are few, so a light snack brought with you will also be handy. It is better to order a taxi to the city in advance via apps or trusted services to avoid inflated prices.

In Case of Flight Delay: In the small terminal, leisure opportunities are limited. In case of a delay, have a book, a charged power bank, or download movies to your gadget. For long delays, contact your airline representative: under EU rules, you may be entitled to drinks, meals, or even hotel accommodation.