Kos Island International Airport (also known as Hippocrates Airport)LGKO

Kos Island International Airport (also known as Hippocrates Airport), located near the village of Antimachia, is the main airport serving the island of Kos. It is about 24 kilometers southwest of Kos Town, making it easily accessible for travelers coming to the island.

Key Information:

1. History:
   • The airport is named after Hippocrates, the ancient Greek physician who was born on Kos and is considered the father of modern medicine.
   • The airport was originally established in the 1960s but has undergone various expansions and improvements over the years to accommodate the growing number of visitors, especially during the tourist season.
2. Facilities:
   • Kos Airport is a relatively small airport but offers essential services for travelers, including check-in desks, baggage claim, and a few retail shops, cafes, and duty-free stores.
   • It has basic amenities like ATMs, car rental services, and information desks to assist tourists.
   • While the airport has limited facilities compared to larger airports, it is functional and efficient, primarily serving as a gateway to Kos for international tourists.
3. Terminals:
   • The airport has a single terminal that handles both domestic and international flights. Although it’s small, the airport is generally able to handle the high volume of passengers during peak summer months.
   • Due to its size, it can get crowded during the height of tourist season (May to October), and some travelers may experience longer wait times during this period.
4. Airlines and Destinations:
   • Kos Airport connects to many major European cities and hubs, especially during the summer months when charter flights and seasonal airlines increase operations. Airlines flying to Kos include both low-cost carriers and major international airlines like EasyJet, Ryanair, TUI Airways, Aegean Airlines, and more.
   • It also operates domestic flights, primarily connecting to Athens, which serves as the main gateway for travelers flying in and out of other Greek islands or international destinations.
5. Transportation to and from the Airport:
   • Taxi: Taxis are readily available outside the terminal. The trip to Kos Town takes about 25-30 minutes and costs approximately €35-€40, depending on the season and the time of day.
   • Buses: A more affordable option is the public KTEL bus service, which runs between Kos Airport and several locations, including Kos Town. The bus journey to the town takes around 40-45 minutes.
   • Car Rental: Several international and local car rental agencies operate at the airport, allowing travelers to rent a car and explore the island at their own pace.
6. Tips for Travelers:
   • If you’re flying during peak season (July and August), it’s advisable to arrive at the airport early, as check-in and security lines can be long.
   • During peak summer months, there are often extra seasonal flights from major European cities, making it easier to find direct flights.
   • While waiting for your flight, the airport has some small cafes and shops where you can buy snacks, drinks, and souvenirs.
7. Future Developments:
   • Over the past few years, Fraport Greece, the company that manages several regional airports in Greece (including Kos), has worked on modernizing and upgrading the facilities at Kos Airport to improve passenger comfort and efficiency.

Overall Experience:

Kos Island International Airport is a small but busy airport, especially during the summer season. While it may not offer the luxury amenities of larger airports, it efficiently connects travelers to Kos from various destinations across Europe. It provides a quick and direct route to the island’s many historical sites, beaches, and other attractions, making it an essential gateway for those visiting this beautiful part of Greece.

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