Crete confirms its position as the country’s strongest regional tourism market during the first four months of 2026, recording the largest increase in international air arrivals among Greece’s main tourist destinations.

According to INSETE data for the period January – April 2026, international air arrivals at Heraklion and Chania airports amounted to 405,474, showing an increase of 16.8% compared to the corresponding period in 2025, when they amounted to 347,081. This change translates into approximately 58,400 additional international visitors.

In particular, Heraklion Airport welcomed 303,781 international passengers, recording an increase of 13.5%, while Chania Airport recorded an even higher rate of increase, as international arrivals reached 101,693, increased by 27.9% compared to the corresponding four months of the previous year.

The picture in domestic air traffic was also positive. Domestic arrivals in Crete amounted to 430,878 passengers, showing an increase of 4%. Heraklion recorded 287,518 domestic arrivals and Chania 143,360, with increases of 3% and 6% respectively.

As shown by INSETE’s analysis, Crete recorded the most international air arrivals among all regional geographical units of the country, surpassing the Dodecanese, where international arrivals amounted to 203,407, as well as the Ionian Islands with 121,439 arrivals.

At the same time, the data highlight the momentum with which Crete entered the new tourist season, strengthening expectations for another strong year for the country’s largest tourist destination.