Published on
March 13, 2026
Image generated with Ai
Travellers heading to Greece’s mainland cities and island destinations continue to drive strong aviation activity as passenger traffic across the 14 regional airports managed by Fraport Greece recorded steady growth in February 2026.
According to airport data, the network handled approximately 720,000 passengers during February, representing a 9.1 percent increase compared to the same month in 2025.
The rise reflects roughly 60,000 additional travelers passing through regional airports that connect visitors with some of Greece’s most popular tourism destinations.
For travelers planning trips to Greece, the increase in passenger traffic signals growing travel demand to the country’s cultural cities and island resorts even before the peak summer tourism season begins.
Regional Airports Supporting Greek Tourism
Fraport Greece operates 14 regional airports that serve key tourism gateways across the country.
These airports connect international visitors with destinations known for their beaches, historic landmarks, and cultural attractions.
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Among the busiest airports in the network are:
- Thessaloniki Airport, serving northern Greece
- Rhodes International Airport, a major gateway to the Dodecanese islands
- Santorini Airport, connecting visitors with the island’s famous caldera views
- Mykonos Airport, a popular entry point for travelers visiting the Cyclades
Other airports within the network provide access to destinations such as Corfu, Kos, Zakynthos, Chania, and Kefalonia, each offering unique travel experiences.
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Together, these airports form a crucial infrastructure network that supports tourism across Greece.
Domestic Travel Leads the Growth
Domestic travel accounted for the largest share of passengers during February.
Data shows that 448,000 travelers flew on domestic routes, representing approximately 62 percent of total traffic.
Domestic passenger numbers increased 10.5 percent compared to February 2025, indicating strong travel activity between Greek cities and islands.
These routes allow travelers to move easily between destinations such as Athens, Thessaloniki, Crete, and the Greek islands.
Domestic flights play a significant role in tourism, allowing visitors arriving in major cities to continue their journeys to island destinations.
International Passenger Numbers Also Increase
International travel also contributed to the overall traffic increase.
Fraport Greece recorded 272,000 international passengers during the month, representing a 6.9 percent year-on-year rise.
International routes connect Greece with destinations across Europe, the Middle East, and other global markets.
Many visitors arriving on international flights travel to Greek island destinations known for their scenic landscapes and Mediterranean beaches.
These routes support tourism across multiple regions of the country.
Seasonal Tourism Patterns
Although February falls outside Greece’s peak tourism season, passenger traffic growth indicates continued travel demand.
Many travelers visit the country during winter and early spring to explore cultural destinations, historic landmarks, and local cuisine.
Cities such as Thessaloniki offer visitors access to museums, historic neighborhoods, and waterfront promenades.
Meanwhile, island destinations such as Santorini and Mykonos attract visitors interested in photography, architecture, and coastal scenery even outside the summer season.
Airports serving these destinations provide year-round connectivity for travelers exploring Greece.
Impact of Calendar Effects
Part of the year-on-year increase in passenger traffic was influenced by a calendar effect related to operational conditions in February 2025.
According to airport data, February 28, 2026 recorded approximately 24,000 passengers across the network.
During the same date in the previous year, most flights were suspended due to a nationwide air traffic controllers’ strike.
The strike significantly reduced flight operations during that period, creating a lower comparison baseline for traffic statistics.
With regular operations in place this year, passenger numbers showed a noticeable increase.
Tourism Destinations Across the Network
The airports managed by Fraport Greece serve several of the country’s most visited travel destinations.
Each region offers a different tourism experience.
On the island of Rhodes, visitors explore medieval architecture, ancient ruins, and beach resorts along the Aegean Sea.
Santorini attracts travelers with its volcanic landscapes, whitewashed villages, and sunset views over the caldera.
Mykonos is known for its vibrant nightlife, beach clubs, and traditional Cycladic architecture.
Meanwhile, Thessaloniki offers a blend of Byzantine history, modern urban culture, and waterfront attractions.
These destinations collectively attract millions of travelers each year.
Aviation Growth and Tourism Development
Airports play a vital role in connecting travelers with tourism destinations across Greece.
The continued increase in passenger traffic reflects the importance of aviation in supporting the country’s travel industry.
Regional airports provide access to destinations that might otherwise require lengthy overland travel.
For international visitors arriving in Greece, these airports serve as gateways to explore the country’s diverse landscapes.
From coastal villages to historic cities, each destination offers experiences shaped by Greece’s history and natural environment.
Looking Ahead to the Summer Season
Passenger traffic growth in February suggests strong momentum for the upcoming tourism season.
Spring and summer typically bring significantly higher passenger numbers as travelers arrive for holidays across the Greek islands.
Airlines often increase flight frequencies to destinations such as Santorini, Mykonos, Corfu, and Rhodes during these months.
For travelers planning trips to Greece, the regional airport network ensures convenient connections between mainland cities and island destinations.
Continuing Travel Demand for Greece
Greece remains one of Europe’s most visited travel destinations, attracting tourists interested in history, culture, and Mediterranean landscapes.
As passenger numbers continue to rise across regional airports, the country’s aviation network plays a central role in supporting tourism growth.
For travelers arriving in Thessaloniki, Rhodes, Santorini, and Mykonos, the journey often marks the beginning of an exploration across one of the world’s most historically rich and scenic destinations.
