Paradise Island with a Cliff-Hanger Runway: Kastellorizo, Greece

The Greek island of Kastellorizo (also known as Megisti) is celebrated not only for its stunning natural beauty but also for hosting one of the most extreme airports in the Mediterranean. Located right in front of the Turkish coast, this tiny island, home to a single, beautiful village of about 500 inhabitants, boasts an airfield that requires an exceptional piloting skill.

The Daring Airfield on a Ridgeline

Kastellorizo Airport (KZS) features a runway that is a true marvel and a challenge: it is constructed on a mountain ridge and is a mere 700 meters long. This short length, combined with steep drops or cliffs at both ends, demands flawless approach and precise maneuvering from the pilots. It is understandable that pilots from Olympic Air (which operates 4-5 flights weekly from its base in Rhodes) must acquire special certification to land here.

The airport’s facilities reflect the small scale of the island. The apron is described as “handkerchief-sized,” and the terminal building is no larger than a family home. Although the current miniature airport was built in the mid-1980s, the jewel-box island was accessible by air even before that. Seaplanes used the natural, horseshoe-shaped bay in front of the village for take-offs and landings.

Kastellorizo is a small yet captivating Greek island. While the airport approach guarantees thrills, it is this very sense of isolation that makes it a truly unique and paradisiacal destination.

#Kastellorizo #Greece #ExtremeAirport #Aviation #KZS #Dodecanese #IslandLife #OlympicAir #continentsurfer

Want to know more?