Latest News About Ryanair Thessaloniki Base Closure

Ryanair has announced the closure of its Thessaloniki base for the 2026 winter season, along with reductions in its Athens capacity and seasonal closures of Chania and Heraklion, due to disputes over airport charges with Fraport Greece. The move will reduce Greece winter capacity significantly, including about 700,000 fewer seats and 12 lost routes.[1][6]

Key details you might care about

• When: Winter 2026 (base to close in October 2026 per some reports).[6][1]
• Impact: 3 aircraft removed from Thessaloniki; 700,000 fewer seats (-45% vs winter 2025); 12 routes canceled; Chania and Heraklion bases also suspended in the off-peak period.[6]
• Why: Ryanair cites higher fees at Greek airports, including perceived unfavorable terms from Fraport Greece and Athens Airport, as the driver behind reduced connectivity.[3][1]

Context and next steps

• The closure follows years of fee disputes and reflects broader capacity reductions in Greece’s regional airports, not just Thessaloniki.[3][6]
• If you’re planning travel to or from Thessaloniki this winter, expect fewer Ryanair options and potentially less competitive pricing due to reduced capacity; consider alternative carriers or routes via Athens or other Greek hubs.[1][6]

Illustration

• A high-level view: Ryanair’s winter network in Greece contracts by removing three aircraft from Thessaloniki, cutting 700k seats and 12 routes, while Athens capacity also tightens and Chania/Heraklion pause seasonal operations (a net drop in regional connectivity).[1][6]

If you’d like, I can compile a short, up-to-date travel checklist for Greek winter travel or map alternative routes from Thessaloniki to common destinations affected by these changes.

Citations: Ryanair closure and impact details with sources reporting the announcement and figures. Additional context on the Thessaloniki base and broader Greek airport fee dispute.[3][6][1]