Kalamata Airport

Kalamata International Airport "Captain Vassilis Constantakopoulos" is the main air gateway to the southern Peloponnese, offering travellers access to the picturesque olive groves and ancient monuments of Messinia. Named after the legendary Greek shipowner who transformed this region into a tourism gem, the airport combines the cozy atmosphere of a small air harbour with the status of an important international hub. Arriving here, you find yourself just a few minutes' drive from the azure waters of the Ionian Sea, bypassing the hustle and traffic of major metropolises.

Features and Advantages of the Airport:

Kalamata Airport is unique for its strategic location: it is situated at an equal distance from the city and popular resort areas, such as the famous Costa Navarino complex. One interesting feature is the shared use of the runway with the Hellenic Air Force, which sometimes allows passengers to observe training flights. Despite seasonal congestion, the terminal remains compact and intuitive, allowing you to complete all arrival formalities as quickly as possible and without unnecessary stress.

Below is the essential contact information for Kalamata International Airport "Captain Vassilis Constantakopoulos" (KLX).

• Official Website: www.klx-airport.gr. The airport is managed by Fraport Greece; up-to-date information on flights, services, and regulations is available on the site.
• Information Desk Phone: +30 27210 63805.
• Address: Kalamata International Airport "Captain Vassilis Constantakopoulos", 242 00, Messini, Messinia, Greece.
• Email: For general inquiries, it is recommended to use the contact form on the airport's official website.
• Social Media: News and updates are published on the official Fraport Greece pages on Facebook, YouTube, and LinkedIn. Kalamata Airport does not have direct individual accounts.
• Lost & Found Information: In case of lost or damaged luggage, you must contact your airline's office directly or the ground handling service representative at the airport. Contacts for handling agents (Skyserv, Goldair Handling) can be found on the airport website.
• Passenger Support Contacts: For assistance and inquiries, you can contact the main airport information phone line or visit the information desk within the terminal.

Reaching Kalamata International Airport (KLX), located approximately 9 km west of the city centre of Kalamata, can be done via several convenient methods. The best choice depends on your budget, time, and preferences. The airport serves as an important gateway to the Messinia region on the Peloponnese peninsula, offering travellers access to the picturesque corners of Greece.

Public Transport. The most budget-friendly way to get to the city is by bus. Routes operated by KTEL Messinias run regularly between the airport and the central bus station of Kalamata. The journey takes about 20-25 minutes, and the ticket price is usually just a few euros. Please note that the schedule may change depending on the season, so it is recommended to check current information on the carrier's website before travelling. There is no direct railway or metro connection to the airport.

Taxi and Private Transfer. For greater comfort, especially if you have a lot of luggage or are travelling with family, you can use a taxi. The taxi rank is located directly outside the arrivals terminal exit. The trip to the centre of Kalamata will take approximately 15 minutes, and the cost will be around 20-25 euros. It is strongly recommended to agree on the price with the driver in advance. Another convenient option is to book a private transfer online beforehand. This guarantees a fixed price and a meeting with the driver in the arrivals hall.

Car Rental and Parking. If you plan to actively explore the Peloponnese, renting a car is the ideal choice. Both international and local rental companies have offices at Kalamata Airport. It is best to book a car in advance, especially during the peak tourist season, to ensure the best selection and price. For those arriving at the airport in their own or a rented vehicle, parking is available on the premises. It is located in immediate proximity to the terminal and offers both short-term and long-term parking options.

Although Kalamata Airport is key for this region, other air harbours are located within a few hours' drive. For example, Araxos Airport in Patras and Zakynthos Airport on the island of the same name can serve as alternative arrival points. The country's largest airport, Athens International Airport Eleftherios Venizelos, is approximately a 2.5-3 hour drive away, which is also worth considering when planning complex routes.

The Kalamata Airport (KLX) is a small and seasonally busy airport, so its structure is extremely simple and easy to understand. There is only one passenger terminal here, which serves both domestic and international flights, mainly charters from Europe during the summer period. Thanks to its compact size, it is practically impossible to get lost.

The terminal is a single-storey building where all key zones are located within walking distance of each other. Upon entering, you immediately find yourself in the general area where the check-in counters are located. After receiving a boarding pass, passengers proceed to the security check area, and then to a small departure lounge. The arrivals area is also located in the same building and consists of passport control and the baggage claim hall. Consequently, there are no transfers between terminals.

The main feature of the airport is its operation under peak load conditions. In summer, from May to October, the airport receives a large number of flights, and the small terminal building can be congested. At this time, check-in and security procedures may take significantly longer than expected. In the off-season, conversely, all procedures go very quickly and without queues. Navigation simply requires following the signs, but in high season, the main task becomes orienting oneself in the dense flow of people rather than the space itself.

Recommendations for Passengers:

• During peak season (June-September), arrive at the airport well in advance — at least 2.5–3 hours before the departure of an international flight.
• Check online in advance which counter your flight check-in starts at to save time.
• Be prepared for the fact that the departure lounge is small, and seating may be limited.

Overall, despite possible inconveniences during the high season, the simplicity and compactness of the terminal make it convenient for travellers heading to the resorts of the southern Peloponnese in Greece.

The history of Kalamata International Airport (KLX) dates back to the mid-20th century. Although a military airfield existed at this location earlier, it was opened for civil aviation in 1959. Initially, it was a small airfield serving domestic flights, but its strategic location on the Peloponnese peninsula in Greece predetermined its future destiny as an important tourism hub.

A key stage in the airport's development was 1986, when a new terminal building was constructed to serve the growing number of passengers. However, the real breakthrough came in 1991, when the airport received international status. This event opened the gates of Messinia to charter flights from all over Europe, giving a powerful boost to tourism development throughout the region. Since then, the airport has been continuously modernized to meet international safety and service standards.

In 2012, the airport was named "Captain Vassilis Constantakopoulos" in honour of the renowned Greek shipowner and philanthropist who made a huge contribution to the region's development. This is a mark of respect to a man whose efforts helped transform Messinia into one of the country's most attractive tourist destinations. In recent years, especially with the growing popularity of resorts like Costa Navarino, the airport's passenger traffic has significantly increased.

One of the most interesting facts about Kalamata Airport is its dual purpose. It shares its runway with the 120th Air Training Wing of the Hellenic Air Force. Therefore, do not be surprised if you see military training aircraft next to your passenger liner. This unique synergy of civil and military aviation continues today, while the airport awaits further expansion and modernization plans to welcome even more guests wishing to discover the beauties of the Peloponnese.

Kalamata Airport (KLX) is a compact regional airport, focused mainly on seasonal and charter flights. Despite its small size, it provides passengers with all necessary services for a comfortable wait before departure. Here you will find a Duty Free shop where you can buy souvenirs, Greek delicacies, and other goods. You can have a snack or drink coffee before your flight in one of several cafes and snack bars located in the terminal building.

For those who prefer to wait for their flight in a calmer environment, the airport has a small VIP lounge. Passengers can use Wi-Fi access within the terminal to stay connected. There are also designated spots for charging mobile devices, although their number may be limited, especially during peak season.

Basic financial services are available at the airport: ATMs and currency exchange points are operational, which is convenient for tourists arriving in or departing from the region. In case of need, there is a first aid point in the terminal building. For passengers travelling with small children, baby care rooms are equipped.

The airport provides services for passengers with reduced mobility. To receive the necessary assistance, it is recommended to notify your airline in advance. It is worth noting that there are no hotels within the airport grounds, however, many accommodation options can be found in the nearby city of Kalamata and its surroundings. Specialized business centres and conference halls are absent at the airport, as it is oriented primarily towards tourist traffic.

Kalamata Airport (KLX) is a compact and primarily seasonal aviation hub, which is reflected in the choice of dining establishments. All cafes and bars are located in the single terminal. You will find food outlets both in the public area before security control and in the departure lounge after it.

The main menu in local cafes consists of quick and convenient snack dishes. Passengers are offered a variety of sandwiches, fresh pastries, salads, crisps, and other snacks. Available beverages include coffee, tea, juices, and water. If you wish to try something local, look out for traditional Greek pies, such as spanakopita (with spinach filling) or tiropita (with feta cheese), which may be in the assortment.

In the public zone (landside), before check-in and control, a small cafe usually operates. This is a convenient place to drink coffee if you have arrived early or are meeting passengers. The main establishment is located in the departure zone (airside), after passport control. Here the selection is usually slightly wider, but there are also significantly more visitors, especially during peak season.

Options for passengers with special dietary needs are limited. Vegetarians may find cheese pastries or vegetable sandwiches, however, options for vegans, as well as gluten-free or halal meals, are practically non-existent. It is recommended to bring food with you if you have strict dietary restrictions. Prices at the airport are generally higher than average compared to the city, which is standard practice for aviation hubs.

Summarizing, Kalamata Airport is excellent for a quick snack or a refreshing drink before a flight, but not for a full lunch or dinner. If you are counting on a hearty meal, it is better to eat beforehand at one of the numerous establishments in Kalamata. The opening hours of cafes in the airport are directly linked to the flight schedule, and they are open when departures and arrivals are being serviced.

To ensure your journey through Kalamata Airport (KLX) goes as smoothly as possible, take advantage of these tips. The airport, especially in the summer season, can be quite busy, so a little preparation will help avoid stress and save time.

Arrival Time and Check-in. It is recommended to arrive at the airport at least 2-2.5 hours before international flights and 1.5 hours before domestic ones. This will give you enough time to complete all procedures without rushing. Many airlines offer online check-in, which allows you to save time at the counters. However, if you need to check in luggage, the queue for the drop-off counter can still be long.

Security Control and Seat Selection. Security services operate according to standard international rules. Be prepared to remove all liquids (in containers up to 100 ml, packed in a transparent bag) and electronics from your hand luggage. When choosing a seat on the plane, note that when taking off from Kalamata or approaching it from the right side, picturesque views of the Messinian Gulf coast open up. Study your flight route to choose a window seat with the best view.

Hand Luggage. Besides standard restrictions on liquids and sharp objects, remember that you are flying from Greece. If you want to take famous local olive oil or honey with you in your hand luggage, ensure the packaging volume does not exceed 100 ml. Anything larger must be checked in as luggage. Always check your airline's rules, as they may differ slightly.

Connecting Passengers and Customs Control. Kalamata Airport mainly serves direct charter and seasonal flights. Long layovers here are a rarity. If you have a connection (most likely in Athens), ensure in advance that there is enough time between flights. For flights to Schengen zone countries, there is no passport control, but it is mandatory when flying outside of it. Customs control is standard: declare large amounts of cash and goods exceeding established limits.

Saving Time and Money. To save money, book a transfer from or to the airport online in advance — this is often cheaper than taking a taxi on the spot. Prices for food and beverages at the airport can be high, so bring an empty water bottle to fill after passing security control, and some light snacks.

In Case of Flight Delay. If your flight is delayed, remain calm. First, contact your airline representative for information. For long delays (more than 2-3 hours), you are entitled to vouchers for food and drinks, as well as phone calls. If the flight is operated by a European airline, EU261 compensation rules may apply to you. Having travel insurance will also help cover unforeseen expenses.