Tito Menniti Airport

Welcome to the "Airport of the Strait" (Aeroporto dello Stretto) — an air gateway where the journey begins with a breathtaking view worthy of the finest postcards. Landing at Tito Menniti Airport is considered one of the most picturesque in Europe: the aircraft descends smoothly over the sparkling waters between the "toe" of the Italian boot and the island of Sicily, revealing a panorama of the majestic Mount Etna. This compact and cosy aviation hub is devoid of the hustle and bustle of giant hubs, allowing guests of the Calabria region to almost instantly switch from the rhythm of the flight to the relaxed atmosphere of "dolce vita".

Tito Menniti Airport possesses a number of unique features that make it an important point on the map of southern Italy. Its main advantage is its strategic location: it effectively serves two major cities simultaneously — Reggio Calabria on the mainland and Messina on Sicily, located just a few kilometres across the strait.

Due to the complex terrain and winds of the Strait of Messina, the approach here requires special skill and training from pilots, turning every flight into a small aviation show for passengers by the window. Despite its modest size, the airport is actively developing, attracting new budget airlines, which makes travel to the south of Italy increasingly accessible.

For the convenience of tourists, the terminal is integrated into the region's transport system: nearby is the "Reggio Calabria Aeroporto" railway station, allowing quick access to the resorts of the Ionian coast, while an established system of buses and shuttles ensures a fast connection to the port for the crossing to Sicily.

• Official website: www.reggioairport.it
• Information desk phone: +39 0965 640517
• Address: Via Provinciale Ravagnese, 11, 89131 Reggio Calabria (RC), Italy
• Email: info@reggioairport.it
• Social media: The airport has an official Facebook page where news and updates are published.
• Lost & Found: For questions regarding lost items and baggage, please contact the Lost & Found service via email at oggettismarriti.reg@sacal.it or via the main airport phone number.
• Passenger Support Contacts: For assistance and answers to questions, you can use the main airport telephone number: +39 0965 640517.

Getting to Tito Menniti Airport (REG) from the city centre of Reggio Calabria is quite simple, thanks to its close proximity. The most economical way is to use the city buses operated by ATAM. Special routes, such as bus No. 28, run regularly between the city centre, the main railway station (Stazione Centrale), and the airport. The bus journey will take approximately 20-30 minutes depending on traffic conditions and the number of stops. The ticket price is usually just a few euros, making this option very attractive for budget-conscious tourists.

For those who value comfort and personal space, the optimal choice would be a taxi or a pre-booked transfer. A taxi ride from the central part of the city to the terminal will take only 15-20 minutes. The estimated cost is 15-25 euros, but it is always recommended to check the fare with the driver before starting the trip. Private transfer is an even more convenient option, especially if you are travelling with bulky luggage or family. Its advantage lies in the fixed price and guaranteed car arrival at the required time.

If you plan to actively explore the picturesque region of Calabria, then car rental would be the best solution. Many rental companies have offices both in the city and at the airport, allowing you to pick up a car in one place and return it in another. For travellers arriving at the airport in their own or rented car, convenient parking lots are provided on its territory — there are zones for both short-term and long-term parking. Thus, the choice of transport for the trip to the airport depends on your priorities: bus for economy, taxi for speed, and car for maximum freedom of movement around the south of Italy.

Tito Menniti Airport (REG) in Reggio Calabria is a compact and convenient aviation hub. It consists of one passenger terminal, which serves all flights, both domestic and international. Thanks to its small size, orienting yourself here is very simple, and you won't have to worry about long walks or the risk of getting lost.

The terminal layout is intuitive. The building has two main levels. The Arrivals area is located on the ground floor: here you will find baggage claim belts, customs control, car rental desks, and the exit to taxis and buses. The Departures area occupies the first floor, which can be reached by escalator or lift. This level houses check-in counters, the security control point, and the waiting hall with boarding gates.

Since there is only one terminal and passenger traffic is moderate, passing through pre-flight formalities usually does not take much time. Flight check-in and security screening proceed quite quickly. Nevertheless, it is recommended to arrive at the airport in advance: approximately 1.5–2 hours before a domestic flight and 2–2.5 hours before an international one. This time will be sufficient to check in luggage without haste, pass through control, and enjoy a cup of coffee before the flight.

Moving around Tito Menniti Airport is very easy. All key zones — from check-in to the boarding gate — are within walking distance of each other, so there is no need for transfers between terminals. Signs are clear and understandable, making navigation simple even for those here for the first time. This small airport serves as an excellent gateway for getting to know the south of Italy.

The history of Tito Menniti Airport (REG), also known as the Airport of the Strait (Aeroporto dello Stretto), is closely linked to the development of aviation in Italy. It was founded in 1939 as a military airfield of the Royal Italian Air Force (Regia Aeronautica) and played an important role during World War II due to its strategic position in the south of the Apennine Peninsula.

The airport received its official name in honour of Tito Menniti, a pilot and war hero born in Reggio Calabria. After the end of the war, in 1947, the airport was restored and opened for civil flights. This event became the starting point for its transformation into the main air hub of the Calabria region and an important transport hub for connecting with the rest of the country.

In subsequent decades, the airport underwent several stages of modernisation. In the 1960s, the runway was significantly lengthened, allowing it to accommodate larger aircraft. In the 1980s, a new passenger terminal building was constructed to cope with the growing passenger flow. The latest major reconstruction, completed in the 2000s, included updating the terminal and improving infrastructure to enhance passenger comfort and safety.

An interesting fact from the history and modernity of the airport is its unique location. It is situated on the very "toe" of the Italian "boot", right on the shore of the Strait of Messina. Due to the proximity of hills and specific wind conditions, the approach at Tito Menniti Airport is considered one of the most technically complex in Europe and requires special skill and training from pilots. The airport serves not only the province of Reggio Calabria but also the Sicilian city of Messina, located just a 20-minute ferry ride away.

Tito Menniti Airport (REG), serving the city of Reggio Calabria and its surroundings in Italy, offers passengers all necessary services for a comfortable wait for their flight. Despite its compact size, the terminal is well-equipped and designed for traveller convenience.

Before departure or after arrival, you can have a snack at cafés and coffee bars, which serve light bites, sandwiches, and aromatic Italian coffee. The airport also has several shops where you can purchase souvenirs, local delicacies, press, and travel essentials.

For those who want to stay connected, free Wi-Fi is available throughout the terminal. There are also zones for charging electronic devices. Passengers preferring enhanced comfort can use the services of the VIP Lounge, offering a quieter atmosphere for rest or work.

ATMs for cash withdrawal are located in the airport building. For emergencies, a first aid point is provided. Business travellers can check on-site for basic services, although there is no full-scale business centre or conference halls in the terminal.

The airport pays great attention to passengers with special needs. For travellers with reduced mobility, special assistance and a dedicated waiting room, Sala Amica, are provided. Families with small children can use the nursery rooms equipped with changing tables.

There are no hotels directly on the airport territory, however, many accommodation options — from budget guest houses to comfortable hotels — can be found in the city of Reggio Calabria itself, which is easily accessible by taxi or public transport.

At Tito Menniti Airport (REG) in Reggio Calabria, passengers will find several cosy establishments where they can have a snack or drink authentic Italian coffee before departure. Although the airport is small, it offers guests classic dining options for Italy, concentrated mainly in the single terminal.

Most cafés and snack bars are located in the public area (landside), before passing security control. Here, the selection is generally wider. After control, in the "secure" area (airside) near the boarding gates, there is also at least one establishment where you can get drinks and light snacks. Café opening hours are usually synchronised with the flight schedule: they open early in the morning and serve passengers until the last departure.

What to try:

• For a quick snack, a classic Italian breakfast is ideal: a cup of espresso or cappuccino with fresh pastry, for example, a croissant (called cornetto here). Panini — hot sandwiches with various fillings — are also popular.
• For a full lunch, you can find the pasta of the day, lasagne, or fresh salad in the main café in the departure zone. Pay attention to dishes with local Calabrian products, such as spicy 'nduja salami ('nduja) or pecorino cheese.

Passengers with special dietary needs should be prepared for a limited selection. Vegetarian options, such as panini with mozzarella and tomatoes or pasta with vegetable sauce, are easy to find. For vegans, the choice may be more difficult and limited to salads without cheese or fruits. Specialized gluten-free or Halal dishes are rarely found, so it is advisable to have suitable snacks with you.

Prices at Reggio Calabria airport correspond to the average level for European air terminals: a cup of coffee will cost approximately 2-4 euros, a panini — 6-9 euros, and a hot dish — 12-20 euros. This is slightly more expensive than in the city, but quite acceptable for a comfortable wait for a flight.

To ensure your journey through Tito Menniti Airport in the city of Reggio Calabria goes as smoothly and comfortably as possible, take advantage of our tips. This is a small regional airport, but knowing a few nuances will help avoid stress and save time.

Arrival time and check-in. For domestic flights within Italy and within the Schengen area, it is recommended to arrive at the airport 1.5–2 hours before departure. For international flights, allow at least 2.5 hours. To save time, complete online check-in on your airline's website. This will allow you to go straight to baggage drop-off (if you have any) or security control, bypassing the check-in counters.

Seat selection on the plane. The airport is located on the shores of the Strait of Messina, so stunning views open up during take-off and landing. To enjoy the panorama of the coast of Calabria and Sicily, try to book a window seat. Try to check the flight path in advance to choose the right side of the aircraft for the best photos.

Hand luggage and screening. Rules for carrying hand luggage are standard: liquids (gels, creams, aerosols) can only be carried in containers up to 100 ml, packed in one transparent bag with a volume of no more than 1 litre. Sharp objects, weapons, and explosive substances are prohibited. Security service works efficiently, but to avoid delays, prepare liquids in advance and remove your laptop and other large electronics from your bag.

For passengers with transfers. Tito Menniti Airport is not a major transit hub, so long layovers are rare here. If you have a transfer, check when checking in for the first flight whether your luggage will be transferred automatically to the final destination. If not, you will need to collect it and check it in again for the next flight, which will require additional time.

Customs control. For travellers arriving from countries outside the Schengen area, customs control is provided. If you have no goods to declare, feel free to go through the "green channel". If you are carrying goods whose value or quantity exceeds established limits, you must use the "red channel" and fill out a declaration.

Saving time and money. Besides online check-in, a few tricks will help save resources. Prices for food and drinks at the airport are generally higher, so bring an empty water bottle with you (it can be filled after security check) and permitted snacks. Also, study transfer options to the city in advance: public transport will be significantly cheaper than a taxi.

If your flight is delayed. In case of a flight delay or cancellation, remain calm. First of all, contact your airline's counter for information. According to EU regulations, for long delays, you are entitled to drinks, meals, and, if necessary, hotel accommodation. Be sure to keep all receipts for unforeseen expenses.