Santorini LGSR Aviation Full Guide

Santorini International Airport (IATA: JTR, ICAO: LGSR) is a vital hub connecting travelers to the iconic island of Santorini, Greece. Located near the village of Kamari, approximately 6 km southeast of Fira, the island’s capital, this compact yet efficient airport is the perfect starting point for your Cycladic adventure.

The airport handles both domestic and international flights, with major airlines and seasonal charters bringing visitors from Europe and beyond. Its single terminal is designed to manage the influx of tourists during peak summer months, connecting essential services such as car rentals, cafés, and souvenir shops.

Santorini International Airport (JTR) Runway Details

Santorini International Airport (IATA: JTR, ICAO: LGSR) features a single asphalt runway designated 16/34. The runway measures 2,125 meters (6,972 feet) in length and 45 meters in width, accommodating narrow-body aircraft such as the Airbus A320 and Boeing 737.

The runway is equipped with a non-precision approach, supported by runway edge lights, PAPI (Precision Approach Path Indicator) systems, and standard visual aids for navigation. Taxiways connect the runway to the apron, which has limited parking stands for aircraft, requiring efficient scheduling, particularly during peak tourist seasons.

The airport’s elevation is 39 meters (127 feet) above sea level, with the geographical coordinates at 36°24′33″N latitude and 25°28′53″E longitude. The airport operates under controlled airspace with an Aerodrome Traffic Zone (ATZ), ensuring safe operations in a challenging terrain characterized by the island’s volcanic features.

Santorini International Airport (JTR) Terminal Overview

Santorini International Airport (JTR) operates a single passenger terminal designed to manage both domestic and international flights. Despite its compact layout, the terminal is structured for efficient handling of seasonal traffic, with separate areas for arrivals and departures.

The terminal features 17 check-in desks, a limited number of boarding gates, and distinct security checkpoints for Schengen and non-Schengen flights. Amenities include a small Duty-Free area, a few coffee and dining options, complimentary Wi-Fi, charging points, and car rental desks. Additional services include ATMs, a Bureau de Change, a Lost & Found office, a first aid room, and minimal but essential facilities for passenger comfort.

The airport operates from 06:30 am to 10:15 pm, closing overnight with no late-night flights scheduled. This operational window aligns with the island’s quieter nighttime environment, allowing travelers to plan accordingly for daytime arrivals and departures.

Santorini International Airport (JTR) Passenger and Aircraft Statistics

Santorini International Airport has witnessed significant growth in passenger traffic fact over recent years:

• 2020: The airport handled a total of 572,963 passengers (283,764 domestic, 289,199 international).
• 2021: Passenger traffic surged to 1,546,584 (561,780 domestic, 984,804 international), marking a 170% overall increase compared to 2020.
• 2022: Numbers rose further to 2,744,650 (1,061,360 domestic, 1,683,290 international), a 77% increase over 2021.
• 2023: Passenger traffic reached 2,775,805 (1,259,564 domestic, 1,516,241 international), reflecting a 1.1% growth compared to 2022.

Additionally, aircraft movements in 2023 totaled 23,233, highlighting the airport’s growing operational activity. Santorini International Airport continues to play a vital role in accommodating the increasing tourism demand for the island.

Slot Coordination at Santorini International Airport (JTR)

Slot coordination at Santorini International Airport (JTR) is managed by the Hellenic Slot Coordination Authority (HSCA). The airport operates under Level 3 coordination, meaning all flights require a slot allocation due to high demand and limited capacity. Key regulations include:

• Slot Requests: Slots must be requested at least 14 days before the intended flight date.
• Historic Rights: Slots are allocated based on historic precedence, meaning airlines that have operated at the same time in previous seasons have priority.
• Slot Monitoring: Compliance with allocated slots is strictly monitored. Non-compliance can result in penalties or loss of slot rights.
• Slots can be canceled up to 12 hours in advance; otherwise, the operator may incur penalties of up to $32,000.

Restrictions and Peak Hours

• Peak Hours: The airport experiences peak traffic during the summer months (June to September), with the highest demand typically between 10:00 and 18:00 local time.
• Operational Hours: The airport operates daily from 06:15 to 22:45, with extended hours during peak travel periods.
• Capacity: The airport can handle up to nine civilian airliners simultaneously on its apron.

Needed Documents for Slot Process

For both scheduled and non-scheduled (charter) flights, the following documents are typically required:

• Slot Request Form: Submitted to HSCA for slot allocation.
• Prior Permission Required (PPR): Must be obtained before applying for slots, especially during peak season.
• Flight Plan: Filed with the relevant air traffic control authorities.
• Insurance Certificates: Proof of adequate insurance coverage for the aircraft.
• Operator’s License: Valid operating license for the airline or charter operator.

Scheduled and Non-Scheduled Flight Operations

• Scheduled Flights: Regularly scheduled flights must adhere to their allocated slots and are subject to the same regulations and monitoring as all other flights.
• Non-Scheduled Flights (Business Operators): Business and charter flights also require slots and PPR. These flights are often subject to stricter scrutiny during peak periods due to limited capacity.

Operational Examples

• A business jet operator planning a flight to JTR in July must request a slot at least 14 days in advance and obtain PPR. Failure to comply with the allocated slot time can result in penalties.
• An airline with historic rights to a morning slot during the summer season will have priority over new entrants, ensuring consistency in their schedule.

Landing Permit at Santorini International Airport (JTR)

Landing permits at Santorini International Airport (JTR) are generally required for certain types of operations:

• Non-European Union Charter Flights: These flights typically require landing permits.
• Private Non-Revenue Flights: Generally do not require landing permits unless operating under specific conditions.

Required Documents for Landing Permits

For operators that need a landing permit, the following documents are typically required:

• Flight Plan: Detailed flight plan filed with the relevant air traffic control authorities.
• Insurance Certificates: Proof of adequate insurance coverage for the aircraft.
• Operator’s License: Valid operating license for the airline or charter operator.
• Aircraft Registration: Documentation proving the registration of the aircraft.
• Crew and Passenger Information: Details of crew and passengers on board.
• Purpose of Flight: Clear statement of the purpose of the flight (e.g., business, leisure, medical evacuation).

Landing permit applications should be submitted well in advance, typically at least 48 hours before the intended flight. The airport experiences high traffic during the summer months (June to September), so it is advisable to apply for permits as early as possible during these periods.

Precision Ground Handling and Operational Excellence at Santorini International Airport (JTR) with Just Aviation

Just Aviation provides specialized ground handling solutions tailored to the unique demands of private and business aviation at Santorini International Airport (JTR). Our suite of services includes ramp handling such as precise aircraft marshaling, coordinated pushback and towing, Jet A-1 fuel supply, and streamlined refueling efficiency and reducing operating cost.

Passenger and crew services are delivered with efficiency and discretion, encompassing fast-track customs and immigration clearance, professional baggage handling, and access to premium VIP facilities. Turnaround times are optimized using state-of-the-art Ground Service Equipment (GSE), ensuring minimal delays and seamless coordination between ground teams and flight crews.

Our expertise extends to slot management, where we handle intricate scheduling to ensure optimal aircraft sequencing and reduce taxiing delays during peak traffic. Working closely with airport authorities and air traffic control, we secure critical flight slots and maintain operational efficiency. Additionally, we manage overflight and landing permits, rigorously adhering to all regulatory requirements to guarantee smooth, uninterrupted flight operations.