Kos International Airport “Hippocrates” (KGS/LGKO) – Your Premium Gateway to the Dodecanese
Kos International Airport, “Hippocrates” (KGS/LGKO), is the principal aviation hub for the stunning island of Kos and a vital entry point to the entire Dodecanese archipelago in the southeastern Aegean Sea. Operated by Fraport Greece, the airport has undergone significant modernization to handle its rapidly increasing passenger traffic, ensuring a seamless and efficient travel experience for millions of tourists each year. Located centrally on the island, KGS offers quick access to Kos’s world-famous historical landmarks, pristine beaches, and vibrant city life.
Key Facts and Airport Overview
KGS is named after the island’s most famous resident, the father of modern medicine, Hippocrates. Its strategic location and modern infrastructure make it a crucial piece of Greece’s tourism network.
- Official Name: Kos International Airport “Hippocrates”
- IATA Code: KGS
- ICAO Code: LGKO
- Location: Situated in Antimachia, approximately 23.5 km (14.6 miles) southwest of the main Kos city center.
- Significance: As one of the 14 regional Greek airports managed by Fraport, it is a primary destination for charter and low-cost carriers, especially during the peak summer season (April to October).
- Infrastructure Investment: The airport has benefited from extensive modernization efforts by Fraport Greece, focusing on capacity expansion, enhanced passenger services, and security upgrades to meet international standards.
Terminal, Services, and Recent Infrastructure Upgrades
Kos International Airport features a single, modern terminal designed to efficiently manage the heavy seasonal demand from both domestic and international traffic.
- Terminal Features: The terminal offers a range of essential services for a comfortable journey, including a selection of cafes, a full-service duty-free shopping area, and complimentary high-speed Wi-Fi access throughout the building.
- Accessibility: The airport is fully accessible, providing assistance and specialized facilities for passengers with reduced mobility.
- Fraport Modernization Highlights: Recent key developments have dramatically improved the passenger experience:
- Baggage System: Installation of a state-of-the-art baggage handling system to increase speed and reliability.
- Forecourt and Parking: Complete redevelopment of the existing forecourt area and expansion of the paid parking facility, which offers capacity for over 1,000 vehicles.
- Security: Enhanced security checkpoints and the construction of new support buildings like a guard house and fire station.
- Nearby Accommodation: A selection of major resort hotels, such as the Mitsis Blue Domes Resort and the Atlantis Hotel, are conveniently located within a short drive of the airport.
Airlines, Destinations, and 2025 Route Enhancements
Kos Airport is primarily served by major European charter and low-cost airlines, connecting the island to over 60 destinations across Europe.
- Main Carriers: Key airlines include Aegean Airlines, Ryanair, easyJet, TUI Airways, Jet2.com, and Sky Express, alongside numerous seasonal charter operators.
- Major Destinations: Direct connections are widely available to key European hubs, including London (LGW, MAN, STN), Berlin, Amsterdam, Frankfurt, Brussels, Milan, and major Greek cities like Athens and Rhodes.
2025 Route Updates & Network Expansion
The island continues to solidify its position as a top travel spot with planned route expansions:
- Inter-Island Connectivity: Aegean Airlines is significantly enhancing its domestic network with a new, direct flight connecting Heraklion (Crete) to Kos, boosting inter-island travel options from the 2025 summer season onwards.
- Increased European Frequency: Low-cost carriers like Ryanair and easyJet have announced increased flight frequencies on several established routes, notably to hubs in Germany and the UK, reflecting the strong demand for Kos holidays.
Ground Transportation Guide
Traveling between the airport and Kos Town or other popular resorts is simple, with multiple reliable options available to suit all budgets.
- Bus Service (KTEL): A regular public bus service (KTEL) connects the airport to Kos city center and other major towns like Kardamena and Kefalos. The journey to Kos Town takes approximately 30-40 minutes and is the most economical option.
- Taxi: Taxis are readily available outside the terminal. The faster, direct route to Kos City takes about 20-25 minutes, with estimated fares ranging from 35 EUR to 40 EUR.
- Car Rental: All major and reputable car rental companies, including Avis, Budget, Hertz, and Sixt, operate desks within the Arrivals Hall, providing a convenient option for tourists wishing to explore the island independently.
- Parking: On-site paid parking is available for both short-term and long-term stays, situated directly in front of the main terminal building.
Security and Future Travel Information (EES)
Travelers should be aware of important upcoming changes to border procedures that will affect travel to Kos.
- Entry/Exit System (EES): Greece, along with 28 other European countries, is gradually implementing the new Entry/Exit System (EES) at its external borders, with full implementation expected by April 2026. This automated system will digitally record the entry and exit of non-EU/non-Schengen travelers, making the border control process more secure and streamlined for third-country nationals. All travelers should be prepared for potential changes in passport control procedures.
Contact Information
For official flight information, services, and general inquiries, please use the following contacts:
- Official Website (Fraport Greece): www.kgs-airport.gr
- Address: 853 02 Kos, GREECE.
- Phone: +30 22420 56000