# Ioannina-Heraklion pilot flight connection

> Live situation record from CLSTR: https://clstr.news/situations/ioannina-heraklion-pilot-flight-connection
> Updated: 2026-09-30T07:52:01.000Z. Sources: 3. Developments: 2.

The Municipality of Ioannina announced a pilot air connection between Ioannina and Heraklion, Crete, scheduled for November 2026. The initiative, involving an Aegean Airlines Airbus A320, aims to bolster regional connectivity, tourism, and economic development through coordination between Ioannina and various Cretan authorities.

Following the announcement, demand for the pilot flights proved high, with all 174 seats on the chartered aircraft selling out for both directions. A waiting list has formed, which officials suggest underscores the need for stable air connectivity between Epirus and Crete and highlights the importance of upgrading Ioannina airport infrastructure.

## Timeline

### 2026-09-30: Ioannina–Heraklion pilot flights sell out

All 174 seats for the upcoming pilot flights between Ioannina and Heraklion via Aegean Airlines are sold out, with a waiting list forming for the November test routes.

2 sources. https://clstr.news/cluster/ioanninaheraklion-pilot-flights-sell-out

### 2026-09-17: Ioannina and Heraklion to launch pilot flight connection in November

Ioannina will launch pilot flights to Heraklion, Crete, in November using an Aegean Airlines Airbus A320 to boost regional tourism and economic connectivity.

2 sources. https://clstr.news/cluster/ioannina-and-heraklion-to-launch-pilot-flight-connection-in-november

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Cite as: Ioannina-Heraklion pilot flight connection. CLSTR, https://clstr.news/situations/ioannina-heraklion-pilot-flight-connection