Chios airport to close from 15 November to 15 March amid strong local opposition
Four-month suspension of runway operations at Chios State Airport "Homer" aims to complete works by 28 February 2027 and boost flight safety.
Chios Airport, known as Homer, will halt operations from November 15, 2026, to March 15, 2027, as part of runway extension and infrastructure upgrades, according to the Hellenic Civil Aviation Authority (HCAA). The works aim to increase runway length to 1,799 meters, enhancing safety and accommodating larger aircraft. The HCAA acknowledges the need to minimize the runway closure period due to winter weather conditions.
Despite protests from locals and a request for a meeting with the Minister of Infrastructure and Transport, the airport will remain operational for emergency flights during the shutdown. Local businesses, including the Chios Chamber of Commerce president, oppose the closure, citing economic and social impacts. The regional governor also expressed concerns over the completion timeline, while Chios' mayor emphasized the importance of maintaining air links during key festive periods.
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