Nikos Kazantzakis Airport in Heraklion, named after the author of Zorba the Greek, is Crete's main airport and one of the busiest in Greece. It lies by the sea just east of the city and in summer receives flights from all over Europe. It is the ideal arrival point for Knossos, the archaeological museum and the resorts of the north coast. A new airport is being built at Kastelli, inland, and will replace it in the coming years.
Arrivals, departures and aircraft in flight
Below you will find today's arrivals and departures board, updated continuously, and a map of the aircraft flying right now within 110 km of the airport, with altitude, speed and distance. Times are Greek local time, one hour ahead of Central European Time.
Updated continuously. Always check with your airline.
Loading aircraft positions…
In red, aircraft below 2,400 m, that is taking off or landing. Open ADS-B data from adsb.lol (ODbL licence).
Getting to town
- City buses: link the terminal with central Heraklion and the port in about 15 to 20 minutes.
- KTEL buses: from the city bus station, services leave for Hersonissos, Malia, Agios Nikolaos and the rest of the island.
- Taxis and hire cars outside arrivals; the centre is only minutes away.
Practical tips
- Documents: EU citizens only need a valid identity card or passport.
- Islands in summer: island airports are small and very crowded on peak days; arrive well ahead of your return flight.
- Domestic flights: Aegean, Olympic and Sky Express link Athens and Thessaloniki with dozens of islands; alternatively there are the ferries.
- Taxis: ask the price before getting in or check that the meter is running; on the islands it is best to book.
To explore the destination see our guide to Heraklion. See also all Greek airports, getting to Greece and ferries to the islands.