Prime Minister Kyriakos Mitsotakis visited the construction site of the new Heraklion International Airport in Kastelli on Friday, 30 January 2026. The visit aimed to highlight project progress and confirm its completion timeline. Mitsotakis announced the airport will enter operation in 2028, calling it ‘the most modern airport in Europe.’ He emphasized Crete’s rapid modernization, resolving long-standing infrastructure gaps and strengthening its future through major projects. During the visit, the aviation systems supply and installation contract was signed—locking in the schedule and placing the project firmly on track for completion. Mitsotakis described Kastelli as ‘the largest construction site in Greece,’ noting construction is advancing at high speed. The new airport will handle more than double the current flight capacity of Heraklion’s ‘Nikos Kazantzakis’ Airport. He also linked the project to complementary infrastructure, especially the Crete North Road Axis (BOAK), which will enhance connectivity to the new gateway. Regarding cultural heritage, Mitsotakis—speaking as a Cretan—stressed sensitivity toward protecting archaeological finds uncovered during construction. Infrastructure and Transport Minister Christos Dimas confirmed works are 67% complete and reiterated the 2028 operational target. The Prime Minister was welcomed by GEK Terna CEO George Peristeris, Hellenic Civil Aviation Authority Director George Vagenas, and senior ministry officials.
Mitsotakis in Kastelli: Crete’s New Airport to Open in 2028
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