Kerkira/ Ioannis Kapodistrias Airport (LGKR)

LGKR (Corfu) requires all GA flights to use a handling agent, with PPR mandatory and typically arranged via the handler. For IFR, a slot is also required and must be coordinated through the handler, sometimes incurring an extra fee. The airport is busy with charter traffic, especially in summer, and delays for parking approval or fuel are common. At least one hour should be allowed for departure formalities, and up to two hours may be needed before leaving. The approach is scenic, and ATC is generally competent.

Fees have increased substantially since Fraport took over management. For aircraft over 1.7 tonnes MTOW, use of the executive terminal (VIP lounge) is mandatory for each movement, with a charge of about €2,000 plus VAT per landing or takeoff—totaling around €4,000 per round trip, not including handling or other airport fees. Including all charges, total costs can approach €6,000 for a visit in this category. For lighter aircraft or those able to secure AOPA discounts, handling and landing fees vary widely: examples include about €200 for landing and one night parking with Goldair Handling (AOPA discount), about €190–€200 for a fuel/customs stop or short stay, and up to €550 in some cases even after lower initial quotes. Example: landing and one night parking about €200; another example: total cost about €190 for a fuel/customs stop.

Handling agents include Goldair (cfu.ops@goldair-handling.gr), Skyserv, Swissport (cfu.operations@swissport.gr), Meander Handling (commercial@meanderhandling.com), and Olympic. Communication with handlers can be slow or require repeated follow-up; AOPA membership may provide significant discounts but must be proven on arrival.

AVGAS is available but not always prioritized; delays of 1–2 hours for refueling are possible during busy periods. Parking space can be limited in high season; advance written confirmation is recommended. Taxis to town cost around €10–€15; car rental agencies are plentiful at the airport. The city center is 15–20 minutes on foot from the terminal.

Expect slow processing at times due to bureaucracy and heavy airline traffic. Procedures vary; see AIP/NOTAM for current requirements. Overall suitability for non-commercial GA is limited by high costs and operational complexity, especially for heavier aircraft subject to executive terminal charges.

Information from ourairports.com:

• 2009-12-08: Airport operates normal hours during winter (report); AOPA or flying‑club membership may substantially reduce landing and handling charges

Source: ourairports.com (one-time import)