Paros National Airport (PAS)

Paros National Airport (IATA: PAS, ICAO: LGPA) serves as the primary aerial gateway to the Cycladic islands of Paros and its smaller neighbor, Antiparos, playing a vital role in the region's thriving tourism industry. It facilitates direct access for visitors, significantly reducing travel time compared to the alternative ferry connections from mainland Greece.

The current airport facility opened in July 2016, replacing a smaller, older airport that was situated a few kilometers to the north. The development of the new airport was a significant milestone for the island, featuring a longer runway and a modern terminal capable of handling larger aircraft, such as the Airbus A320, and accommodating a higher volume of passengers. This upgrade has been instrumental in boosting Paros's accessibility and popularity as a leading European holiday destination.

Located in the southwestern part of the island near the village of Aliki, the airport is approximately 10 kilometers from the main port town of Parikia and about 20 kilometers from the popular town of Naoussa. Travelers can access the airport via a well-maintained road network. Transport options include public KTEL buses, which connect to Parikia and other key locations, though schedules can be infrequent. Taxis are readily available outside the terminal, and several car rental agencies have desks within the arrivals hall.

Operations at Paros National Airport are predominantly domestic, with multiple daily flights to and from Athens and Thessaloniki, primarily operated by Olympic Air (a subsidiary of Aegean Airlines) and Sky Express. During the peak summer season, from May to October, the airport also handles a growing number of seasonal international charter and scheduled flights from various European cities. Passenger traffic has steadily increased since the new airport's inauguration, with annual figures often exceeding 250,000.

The airport consists of a single, modern, and compact terminal building. Facilities are functional and cater to basic traveler needs. Inside, passengers will find check-in counters, a departures lounge with a single gate, a small duty-free shop, and a café selling snacks and beverages. The arrivals area contains baggage claim and the aforementioned car rental desks. There are no dedicated airline lounges.

For a smooth travel experience, it is advisable to arrive at least 90 minutes before a scheduled flight, especially during the busy summer months of July and August when the small terminal can become congested. Pre-booking rental cars or private transfers is highly recommended, as on-the-spot availability can be limited. Travelers planning to connect to ferries should allow ample time for the transfer from the airport to the port in Parikia.