Aegean Airlines, Greece’s flagship carrier and a proud member of the Star Alliance network, plays an essential role in connecting Heraklion—one of the Mediterranean’s most beloved travel destinations—with major domestic and international cities. At Heraklion International Airport “Nikos Kazantzakis” (HER), Aegean Airlines primarily operates from the main terminal, which serves as the airport’s central hub for both arrivals and departures. The terminal is known for its functional layout, straightforward services, and efficient passenger handling, making it a welcoming gateway for travelers heading to or from Crete. Whether you are preparing for a summer holiday, returning home, or catching a connecting flight through Athens, the Aegean Airlines experience at HER is designed to be smooth, intuitive, and traveler-friendly.
Overview of Heraklion Airport Terminal for Aegean Airlines
HER Airport operates with a single main terminal, accommodating nearly all commercial carriers, including Aegean Airlines. Although the airport is compact compared to major European hubs, it is optimized for quick processing and convenient navigation. During peak summer months, the terminal becomes particularly lively as travelers from across Europe flock to Crete. Despite the seasonal rush, Aegean Airlines maintains well-coordinated operations, making the terminal manageable and relatively easy to move through. The Aegean Airlines HER Terminal includes all essential airport services—check-in areas, security zones, baggage claim, duty-free shops, and passenger lounges—arranged in a way that supports the airline’s well-established operational rhythm.
Aegean Airlines Check-In at HER Terminal
At Heraklion Airport, Aegean Airlines provides an organized check-in experience tailored to passengers with varied needs. The check-in counters are located in the main departure hall, easily visible upon entry.
Passengers can choose from multiple check-in options:
1. Standard Counter Check-In
Ideal for travelers who need baggage assistance or travel document verification, the staffed counters offer friendly, informative service. Aegean agents support passengers with:
Baggage drop-off
Itinerary changes
Travel questions
Special service requests
2. Priority Check-In
Passengers flying Aegean Business Class, Miles+Bonus Gold, or Star Alliance Gold have access to dedicated priority counters. These lines are noticeably shorter, helping premium travelers save valuable time, especially during crowded peak periods.
3. Online and Mobile Check-In
Passengers who have checked in online through the Aegean Airlines website or mobile app can head straight to baggage drop or security, drastically reducing wait times. The check-in area’s straightforward layout supports quick movement from counters to security checkpoints, contributing to an overall stress-free start to the journey.
Security and Pre-Departure Screening
After check-in, Aegean Airlines passengers proceed to the main security screening area of the terminal. While HER Airport has a more compact security zone compared to larger airports in Greece, it is well organized and equipped with standard scanning technology. During busy travel seasons, lines may form, but staff work consistently to manage the flow efficiently. Passengers with priority status often benefit from faster processing pathways, ensuring they reach the departure area quickly.Once travelers pass security, they enter the departure lounge, where shops, gates, and services await.
Shopping and Dining Options in HER Terminal
Despite its smaller size, the terminal at Heraklion Airport offers a variety of shopping and dining selections suitable for travelers preparing for a short or long flight.
Shopping Selections
Passengers can explore a selection of travel-friendly retail outlets, including:
Duty-free shops, stocked with perfumes, cosmetics, tobacco, liquor, and confectionery
Greek specialty stores offering local olive oils, wines, honey, herbs, and souvenirs
Fashion and accessory outlets featuring summer clothing, bags, and accessories
Convenience shops for snacks, bottled drinks, books, magazines, and travel essentials
These shops provide last-minute items as well as meaningful memorabilia that reflect the culture and beauty of Crete.
Dining Options
Aegean Airlines passengers have access to several dining choices inside the terminal:
Cafés and bakeries serving Greek pastries, coffee, and light snacks
Grab-and-go outlets offering sandwiches, wraps, salads, and beverages for travelers in a hurry
Sit-down restaurants for those who prefer a proper meal before takeoff
International fast-food chains that cater to familiar tastes
Passengers can savor traditional flavors or opt for quick international bites depending on their schedule.
Aegean Airlines Lounge Access at Heraklion Airport
Although HER Airport does not offer an extensive network of lounges, Aegean Airlines maintains access to select partner lounge facilities, especially during peak travel seasons or for eligible premium passengers.
Business Class passengers and elite Aegean or Star Alliance members may enjoy:
Comfortable seating
Quiet spaces for work or relaxation
Complimentary snacks and beverages
Wi-Fi access
Charging points
Reading materials
While the lounge options at HER may not be as expansive as those in Athens or Thessaloniki, they provide welcome convenience and comfort for premium travelers seeking a peaceful environment before departure.
Boarding Procedures for Aegean Airlines Flights
Aegean Airlines follows a systematic boarding process at HER Terminal. Boarding announcements are clear and usually made in both Greek and English, ensuring all passengers understand the sequence.
The boarding order typically involves:
Passengers with special assistance needs or families with small children
Business Class travelers
Miles+Bonus Gold, Star Alliance Gold members
Economy Class boarding by row or zone
The gates are conveniently positioned and easy to reach, minimizing walking distances within the terminal. Staff guide passengers carefully, ensuring efficient and timely boarding, especially during busy flight schedules.
Arrival Procedures at HER Terminal
For travelers landing in Heraklion with Aegean Airlines, the arrival experience is straightforward and time-efficient. Once passengers disembark, they move through the main arrival corridors toward passport control (if arriving from non-Schengen destinations). After clearing any applicable immigration checks, passengers proceed directly to the baggage claim area, where Aegean Airlines works to facilitate quick luggage delivery. Screens display accurate flight information, helping travelers locate their designated carousel with ease. Upon collecting bags, passengers move into the arrivals hall, where ground transportation and local travel services await.
Transportation Options from Heraklion Airport
HER Airport features multiple transport choices suitable for every traveler:
1. Taxis
Conveniently available outside the terminal, airport taxis offer fixed-rate or meter-based fares to major locations across Heraklion and nearby tourist areas.
2. Public Buses
Affordable buses link HER Airport with Heraklion city center and other regional destinations. They operate frequently and are an excellent budget option.
3. Car Rentals
HER offers numerous car rental companies, ideal for travelers who want to explore Crete independently.
4. Private Transfers
Pre-booked transfers and hotel shuttles provide personalized travel options with added comfort.
Why Aegean Airlines and HER Terminal Make a Strong Pair
Aegean Airlines’ long-standing reputation for service quality and punctuality aligns well with Heraklion Airport’s practical layout and efficient operations. The single-terminal design minimizes movement, while Aegean’s organized procedures help passengers enjoy a smooth experience from check-in to landing. Whether flying within Greece or connecting to international destinations via Athens, passengers at HER can expect a reliable, friendly, and comfortable journey supported by both the airline and the terminal infrastructure.
