Santorini Thira Airport in a Nutshell
Santorini Airport or Thira Airport (the island of Santorini is less commonly still also called Thira) is one of the few international airports located on a Greek island, at least in the Cyclades complex. What’s more, it isn’t just a civil airport but is also used by military aviation. JTR Airport is to be found on the east side of the island, north of Kamari (a popular island village) and 5km/3.1 miles from the island’s “capital”, Fira.
In 2015, Santorini Airport joined the Fraport group. At the time, Fraport announced an inspiring renovation plan for the airport concerning the expansion of its premises, the addition of more check-in counters and departure gates, etc. The plan was successfully carried through by 2021. Thus, although preserving its traditional character, Santorini’s aviation hub has been modernized, combining its authentic style with contemporary touches and modern facilities. Nowadays, it can actually serve up to 9 airlines simultaneously, despite its small size.
Overall, JTR Airport is listed among the top 10 Greek airports. Specifically, it is the 8th busiest one. Despite the big impact of the Covid-19 pandemic on the airport’s passenger traffic, JTR seems to bounce back. As a matter of fact, in 2022, it welcomed almost 1 million tourists.
Airport Name: Santorini Airport
IATA Code: JTR
ICAO: LGSR
Location: Thira, Santorini, Greece
Time Zone: Eastern European Summer Time (UTC+3)
Airport Map: Santorini Airport at Google Maps
Santorini Airport’s Layout
When Fraport Greece acquired JTR Airport, it was determined to start a new era for the airport of one of the most famous islands worldwide. Verily, the airport underwent a major renovation and expansion. During that time, its one terminal building kept its traditional exterior design -totally in sync with the island’s local architecture- but was utterly modernized on its interior. Thus, nowadays, the JTR terminal houses the Arrivals and Departures on the same level and offers its passengers just a few yet efficient and top-quality services and amenities.
Airlines Operating at Santorini Airport
Overall, JTR Airport is listed among the top 10 Greek airports. Specifically, it is the 8th busiest one. As a result, it welcomes conventional flights but mainly serves charters from the mainland, the other Greek islands, including Crete, and from all over the world as well. Foreseeably, the passenger traffic is high during the peak tourist season -that is, from spring to early autumn- while during the winter months, the airport handles only a few, almost exclusively domestic flights. Various airlines are present at JTR, with Aegean Airlines, Olympic Air, and Ryanair being among the most important ones.
Transit Options
Santorini is a small island. Thus, almost all its regions lie within a 10-20-minute ride from Santorini Airport. Therefore, even though travelers don’t have a lot of transit options in their hands, the hassle is minimum. Overall, the available alternatives for the journey from Santorini Airport to Fira, Oia, or any other of the scenic villages of the island are:
Services and Amenities
Despite its small size and its limited services, Santorini Airport is overall considered a passenger-friendly aviation hub. Verily, although it offers just the absolutely necessary amenities, they are top-rated and effective. Thus, the provided services and amenities are:
- a limited variety of dining options
- a few coffee/drinking areas
- a minimum Duty-Free area
- free Wi-Fi
- a first aid room
- a Lost & Found service
- ATMs
- a bureau de change
- car rental desks
- complimentary charging points
- 17 check-in desks
The Idyllic Santorini
Are you looking for a Greek island combining the famous Aegean sun, breathtaking beaches, and a lot of historical attractions? Santorini is among the world’s top destinations for a reason. The volcanic island offers its guests a wide variety of utterly different-looking beaches along with a reserved prehistoric village (Akrotiri) and many archaeological sites and natural attractions. Its villages are scenic, with white houses with blue doors and shutters, small churches, and picturesque narrow streets. Little needs to be said about Santorini’s sunsets. They are one of the main reasons attracting visitors, after all. Nevertheless, Santorini is more than that. Its shopping scene is unlike any other, whereas its dining options and nightlife are the icing on the cake of an unforgettable holiday.
Contact Info
Official Name: Santorini International Airport
Address: Thera 847 00
Phone Number: +30 22860 28400
Official Website: https://www.jtr-airport.gr/en/
FAQs
What airport do you fly into for Santorini?
The island of Santorini has its own airport, Santorini Airport, which is also an international aviation hub. Thus, whatever your destination of origin is, it is likely that you’ll be able to fly to Santorini.
Is Santorini Airport small?
JTR Airport is really small, consisting of one terminal building kitted with the basic facilities and amenities. Still, ever since joining the Fraport group, Santorini Airport has been modernized, and despite offering few services, they are considered well-managed and efficient.
Can I sleep in Santorini Airport?
Santorini Airport doesn’t operate around the clock. In fact, its operating hours vary depending on the season of the year. What’s more, being a really small airfield, it has limited seats. Thus, sleeping at the airport isn’t possible.
How far is Santorini from the airport?
Santorini’s capital -or “Chora” as it is most commonly known- is Fira. Fira is located only 5km/3.1 miles away from Santorini International Airport. Overall, the distance between JTR Airport and most of the island’s regions is 10-20 minutes by car.
When did Santorini Airport open?
Santorini Thira Airport opened its doors in 1972. However, in 2015, it was added to the Fraport group, leading to the renovation and modernization of its premises. As of 2021, Santorini Airport is still considered a small regional airport but is now a contemporary and up-to-date airfield.
How early should I get to Santorini Airport?
It is claimed that a 1-hour before the flight arrival at JTR Airport is enough for the check-in procedures, as the airport’s premises are narrow. Nevertheless, the airport tends to get crowded, especially during the summer months. Thus, it is recommended to reach the airport 2 hours before your flight’s departure to do your check-in unhurriedly.
What are the transportation options from Santorini Airport?
Apart from the 24/7 Santorini airport taxis and the lavish private transfers, only the intercity KTEL Buses handle public transfers from Santorini Thira Airport to other parts of the island. Alternatively, autonomous airport car rentals are the ideal way to travel from Santorini Airport to Fira or explore the island at your own pace.