Corfu Airport to expand

Fraport is focusing on further expanding the terminal at Ioannis Capodistrias Airport. Corfu airport is among four airports managed by the German company where investments totalling between 150–200 million euros are planned over the next three years. This information was shared by Alexander Zinell, the company’s CEO, during the 7th Athens Investment Forum (AIF): “The airports where we want to focus and further invest are Santorini, Mykonos, Kos and Corfu. At these airports, we aim to increase capacity across all areas, including baggage areas, check-in facilities, passenger management, and so on.”

This emphasis on congestion was also discussed at Zinell’s press conference marking five years since Fraport began managing Greek airports. Responding to a question, he acknowledged that capacity was stretched in nearly all areas: “We are out of space. Passengers, planes, buses, shuttles, rental cars—you name it, there’s no room,” he said. This issue has become even more pressing with the annual increase in arrivals and departures, setting new records year after year. Additionally, Corfu Airport now serves tourist traffic headed to southern Albania, a demand expected to change when the new Vlora airport opens in 2025.

As for runway infrastructure projects, according to Fraport, they are expected to be completed on schedule to meet certification renewal requirements. These plans do not, however, include land expropriation for runway expansion, at least according to Fraport’s claims. This is despite a clear contractual stipulation between the Greek state and the Recovery Fund financing these projects. As part of this project, the airport will close from Monday, November 18, for two weeks to allow for necessary upgrades.

GIORGOS KATSAITIS

Photo: Enimerosi