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    Samos International Airport

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    Samos International Airport (SMI/LGSM): Your Essential Gateway to the Aegean Islands

    Samos International Airport, officially named “Aristarchos of Samos,” serves as a crucial air link for the Eastern Aegean, connecting the historical and beautiful island of Samos with major cities across Greece and Europe. As an airport managed by Fraport Greece, SMI is undergoing significant modernization to enhance the travel experience for the nearly half a million passengers it serves annually, making it a key destination for tourists seeking Greek sun and history.

    Overview, Location, and Management

    The airport’s strategic location and historical name honor Aristarchos, the ancient Greek astronomer and mathematician born on Samos.

    • Official Name: Samos International Airport “Aristarchos of Samos.”
    • IATA/ICAO Codes: SMI / LGSM.
    • Strategic Location: The airport is conveniently situated in the region of Pythagorio, making it an ideal entry point for visitors. It is approximately 4 km from Samos city center and just 3 km (1.9 mi) east of the city.
    • Coordinates: 37° 41′ 20” N, 26° 54′ 50” E.
    • Historical Context: Located near the birthplace of the renowned philosopher Pythagoras and the UNESCO World Heritage Site of the ancient Heraion Temple.
    • Operator: The airport has been operated and managed by Fraport Greece since 2017, ensuring continuous investment in modernization and infrastructure upgrades to meet international standards.
    • Passenger Traffic & Capacity: As a vital hub for the Aegean, SMI handled approximately 500,000 passengers in 2024. Its annual capacity is being significantly upgraded to comfortably serve over 1 million travelers per year.

    Modern Terminal, Enhanced Facilities, and Services

    SMI currently operates with a single, functional terminal building, which is in the process of a major upgrade to handle increasing passenger volumes.

    • Terminal Status: A single terminal building handles all domestic and international flights to Samos.
    • Major Expansion & Modernization: The ongoing remodeling project is set to significantly enhance passenger flow and comfort. The terminal size is increasing by 19% to 9,605 m².
    • Capacity Boost Details: To minimize wait times, the expansion will increase check-in counters by 40% (from 10 to 14), departure gates by 25% (from 4 to 5), and security lanes by 50% (from 2 to 3).
    • Connectivity: Passengers can enjoy free and unlimited Wi-Fi access throughout the terminal by connecting to the “Fraport Free” network.
    • Shops & Dining: Facilities include a small duty-free store located after the security check and dining options such as the ‘Ontime’ café (available both public and airside) and a snack bar/bakery in the transit zone for essential refreshments.
    • Essential Services: The terminal is equipped with disabled access. ATMs (Eurobank, Euronet) are available in the arrivals hall.
    • Important Note: Travelers should be aware that dedicated baggage storage (luggage hold) facilities are not available at Samos Airport.

    Airlines and Upcoming International Flight Destinations (Summer 2026 Outlook)

    Samos International Airport is a key seasonal destination, particularly for Northern and Central European tourism.

    • Domestic Connections: Essential domestic links are provided by major Greek carriers, including Aegean Airlines, Olympic Air, and Sky Express, connecting Samos to Athens (ATH) and Thessaloniki (SKG).
    • Key International Carriers: Major European airlines servicing SMI include Condor, Transavia, Eurowings, and SmartWings, providing direct seasonal routes.
    • 2025/2026 Destination Highlights: Confirmed or expanded routes for the upcoming seasons feature direct flights to major European cities such as Düsseldorf and Amsterdam.
    • UK Market Expansion (2026): Accessibility for British tourists is significantly increasing, as Jet2.com and Jet2holidays announced Samos as a core destination for Summer 2026. This expansion introduces new direct routes from UK airports, including Manchester (MAN) and London Stansted (STN), alongside an expanded offering from Birmingham Airport (BHX).

    Ground Transportation, Transfers, and Parking at SMI

    Securing a smooth Samos airport transfer is easy, with several reliable options available directly outside the terminal.

    • Public Bus Service (KTEL): The most cost-effective Samos airport transfer option. A reliable public bus service connects the airport to Samos Chora in about 10 minutes. Fares are highly affordable, with the Chora route costing around 1.50 EUR, and fares to other destinations like Samos City/Pythagorio ranging from €2-3.
    • Taxi Services: Taxis are readily available outside the terminal. A comfortable ride to Samos Chora takes approximately 7 minutes, with typical fares ranging from 10-15 EUR.
    • Car Rental: For travelers seeking maximum flexibility to explore the island, on-site services are available. Reputable international car rental companies such as Hertz and Sixt operate from the terminal. Booking in advance is highly recommended during the peak season.
    • Parking: Paid, on-site parking is available for visitors and passengers, offering a capacity for up to 400 vehicles.

    Essential Traveler Information and Airport Updates

    Travelers should be aware of specific operational details and local features that can enhance their trip planning.

    • Operational Update (2025-2026 Winter): Due to scheduled runway and maintenance work, Samos Airport will implement a temporary 24-hour closure every Wednesday. This closure is scheduled to run from November 18, 2025, to March 24, 2026 (excluding the Christmas and New Year holiday periods). All travelers must confirm their flight status directly with their airline during this maintenance window.
    • Visa on Arrival (VoA): Samos is part of the Greek islands program offering a Visa on Arrival (VoA) scheme for Turkish citizens, facilitating short stays and easing travel between Samos and Kuşadası, Turkey.
    • Local Access & Ferry Links: The airport’s convenient location provides easy access to the beautiful Kokkari beach and the ferry connection point for Kuşadası, Turkey—an ideal starting point for exploring both countries.
    • Nearby Accommodation: Several hotel options are close by for convenient pre- or post-flight stays, including the popular Doryssa Seaside Resort and Ino Village Hotel.

    Contact Information for Samos International Airport “Aristarchos of Samos”

    For official inquiries and flight status, use the contact details below.

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