 The airport is preparing to resume full operations after all required on-site procedures were successfully completed earlier today. According to reliable sources, crews are currently carrying out the final cleanup of the runway. The operation is expected to take approximately 90 minutes, after which the airport will be ready to welcome arriving and departing flights once again. The most encouraging outcome of the inspections so far is that no fatalities, major damage, or significant structural issues have been found on the runway infrastructure, allowing the reopening process to move forward as planned. Extended Operating HoursTo accommodate delayed and rescheduled flights and ensure passengers can travel with minimal disruption, the airport will operate on an extended schedule:
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 Original photo source: Ermis News Zakynthos There is encouraging news for travellers following today's disruption at Zakynthos International Airport.
According to local reports, including Ermis News, the Hellenic Air Force F-16 aircraft involved in today's emergency incident has now been removed from the runway. The aircraft was reportedly lifted by crane and will be transported to Kyllini and then on to Araxo, allowing the runway to be cleared. Although airport authorities have not yet issued a formal announcement confirming that normal operations have fully resumed, there are positive signs that the airport is returning to service. The official Zakynthos Airport flight information system is once again live and displaying arriving and departing flights, including active departures with check-in desks, boarding information and gate allocations. This suggests that airlines have begun operating flights again, although many services are still expected to run behind schedule as carriers work through the backlog caused by the temporary closure. Passengers travelling today are advised to:
We will continue to monitor developments and provide further updates as more official information becomes available. Last updated: 9 July 2026 More photos click on main source ermisnews.gr  The Municipality of Zakynthos has issued the following update regarding today's temporary closure of Zakynthos International Airport. The airport remains temporarily closed following the emergency landing of a military aircraft. Recovery operations are currently underway, and the necessary safety inspections are being carried out to ensure the runway can reopen safely. According to the Mayor of Zakynthos, George Stasinopoulos, a further update will be provided after 7:00 PM. If no damage is found during the inspections, the airport is expected to reopen later this evening and remain operational throughout the night to accommodate today's scheduled flights. The Municipality has asked local tourism businesses and accommodation providers to assist visitors whose departures have been affected by extending their stay where possible until normal airport operations resume. The safety and wellbeing of both residents and visitors remain the highest priority. We understand that this unexpected situation may cause inconvenience and sincerely appreciate your patience and understanding. We will continue to monitor the situation closely and will share further updates as soon as official information becomes available. Thank you for your cooperation, and we wish all our guests safe travels.  Travel Update:
Visitors travelling to or from Zakynthos today may experience flight delays following an incident involving a Hellenic Air Force aircraft at Zakynthos International Airport. Earlier today, a military F-16 made an emergency landing at the airport. Emergency services responded immediately, the pilot was reported safe, and the runway was temporarily closed while the aircraft was secured and recovery operations began. According to local authorities, the runway is expected to remain closed until at least 7:00 pm (19:00). A specialist Hellenic Air Force recovery team is due to remove the aircraft and clear the runway, after which the airport will assess when operations can safely resume. There are local reports suggesting that some commercial flights may begin operating again after approximately 9:00 pm, although this has not yet been officially confirmed. Fraport Greece, which operates Zakynthos Airport, has issued the following official advice: "Runway operations have been suspended until further notice due to the emergency landing of a Hellenic Air Force aircraft. Passengers are advised to contact their airline or travel agent regarding any changes to scheduled flights." At this stage:
Last updated: Thursday 9 July 2026  Last Updated: Today Passengers travelling to and from Zakynthos Airport should be aware of significant disruption following an emergency landing involving a Hellenic Air Force aircraft. According to an official announcement from Zakynthos Airport (Fraport Greece), runway operations have been suspended until further notice for operational reasons after the military aircraft made an emergency landing at Zakynthos International Airport "Dionysios Solomos". Official Airport Announcement "Due to an emergency landing of a military aircraft of the Hellenic Air Force at Zakynthos Airport 'Dionysios Solomos', runway operations will be suspended for operational reasons until further notice. For the better service of passengers, travelers are advised to consult their airline and travel agencies regarding any changes to scheduled flights." (zth-airport.gr) National T.V station ERTNews stated that operations will not begin until the military aircraft has been removed from the runway. What This Means for Travellers As Zakynthos Airport operates with a single runway, all arrivals and departures are likely to experience delays until airport authorities confirm that operations have resumed. Some flights may also be rescheduled depending on how long the runway remains closed. If you are due to fly today:
Greek media report that the Hellenic Air Force F-16 made an emergency landing following an in-flight malfunction. Emergency services responded immediately, and the pilot is reported to be safe. The cause of the incident is under investigation. Zakynthos InformerWe will continue to monitor the situation and update our readers as soon as Fraport Greece or the airlines confirm that the runway has reopened and normal operations resume. We wish everyone travelling today a safe journey and thank passengers for their patience while airport staff manage this unexpected situation. If you would like to read more on this topic please click on the link below:- www.zakynthosinformer.com/blog/emergency-landing-for-hellenic-air-force-f-16-at-zakynthos-airport?fbclid=IwY2xjawS8euNleHRuA2FlbQIxMQBzcnRjBmFwcF9pZBAyMjIwMzkxNzg4MjAwODkyAAEeG4aBuEe7xmkkZtYG41bzWBLJxFifs8goYGWC1vxstbbPxq47HTKpV89vwlI_aem_Gb5S07Ec7bJmCiGgBATajA 
Photo Exclusive: original photo by Neil Bray:- Airport firefighters surround a Hellenic Air Force F-16 with firefighting foam following its emergency landing at Zakynthos International Airport on Thursday. The pilot landed safely and was unharmed as emergency crews responded to the incident.
Pilot safe as emergency services respond – no injuries reported A Hellenic Air Force F-16 fighter jet made an emergency landing at Zakynthos International Airport earlier after the pilot reported a technical problem during flight. According to the information available, the pilot declared an emergency before safely landing the aircraft at Zakynthos Airport, following established emergency procedures. The pilot exited the aircraft safely and no injuries have been reported. A major emergency response was immediately launched, with airport firefighters and emergency services rushing to the scene. As the incident unfolded, a resident witnessed black smoke rising from the airport, while the sound of emergency sirens could be heard across the surrounding area. At least four airport fire engines responded, surrounding the aircraft within minutes of it coming to a stop on the airfield. Firefighters quickly covered the aircraft and the surrounding area with firefighting foam as a precaution while emergency personnel continued to monitor the situation. At the time of publication, emergency crews remained at the scene. Emergency services responded immediately, and the aircraft was surrounded with fire-suppressant foam as a precaution against a possible fuel or engine fire. This is standard procedure when there is a suspected hydraulic leak, overheated brakes, engine problem or fuel leak after an emergency landing. The exact nature of the technical problem has not yet been officially disclosed. The Hellenic Air Force is expected to carry out a technical inspection and investigation to determine the cause of the emergency landing. Reports circulating on social media have suggested that some inbound commercial flights may have been diverted while the incident was being dealt with. However, at the moment we have not been able to independently verify those claims, and no official statement has yet been issued by Fraport Greece or Zakynthos Airport confirming diversions or widespread disruption to commercial flight operations. For travellers due to arrive in or depart from Zakynthos, there have been no reports of injuries or damage to the airport's runway or infrastructure, and there is currently no official indication that the airport has been closed. As a precaution, passengers are advised to check directly with their airline for the latest information regarding their flight while emergency procedures are completed. The incident attracted considerable attention across the island, with many residents and visitors witnessing the emergency response as firefighters worked to secure the aircraft. Zakynthos Informer will continue to monitor the situation and provide updates as more official information becomes available. video follows:-  Laganas, Zakynthos, 1960s There was a time when people visited Greece for their holidays, a time before laptops and smartphones, before TikTok and Facebook. It was a time that was simpler and more laid back. In those decades, from the hippy trail to the mid 1990s, it was a different Greece. One that enticed people with its historical charm, and quaintness, with the possibility of visiting somewhere abroad that was unique and relatively “untouched” by tourism. Visitors at the time would have explored a more traditional Greece, with less urbanisation. There would have been swathes of open land, history and miles of sweeping shoreline and with often not a sunbed in sight! Greek hospitality was home cooked, or a small shack with a small menu but the best food you’ve ever tasted in your life. Locals would have tended the land, olive groves and currents, fished or worked in local businesses. Exploring Zakynthos during these decades was an adventure. It was an exploration of the sights and sounds of Greece. Visitors could travel by bike, scooter or car, seeing where the next road or track would take you. There were no, or very few, tourism companies vying for your Euro, because Drachma was king and most “tourism companies” were simply locals giving you directions. Buildings were mostly small and traditional, and the urban sprawl of big flashy hotels, apartments and villas was barely a light on the distant horizon. It all sounds wonderfully nostalgic and idyllic doesn’t it? And you’re right, it was. Times have changed, since, with tourism in Greece growing exponentially. Many call it progress. Others say it’s not a progress they would have wished for. Despite this, tourism in Zakynthos is now king, having stolen the crown from the discarded Drachma. Many of the once pristine areas of the island are now busy resorts, filled with tourists and influencers, the landscape unrecognisable with new buildings going up yearly. Progress always come at a price, and many of the old ways of earning a living on Zakynthos have gone, because of these modern changes and continuance of modern tourism is how Zakynthians survive, to ensure they have money for themselves and their families. Nostalgia is a wonderful thing, it draws us back to a different time. Whilst Zakynthos may have changed, to become more built up and busy, there are still places on the island where you can get a glimpse of the Zakynthos of the past. You just need to get off the beaten path, away from the resorts and seek it out. Explore the images below for some great photos of the island during early years of tourism to see how many places you recognise!
 The UK Government has recently launched its "Planning for Later Life" campaign, designed to help British citizens living overseas prepare for the future. The initiative encourages expats to think ahead about important matters such as healthcare, social care, finances, legal arrangements, and long-term support as they grow older. With thousands of British nationals choosing Greece as their permanent home, the campaign aims to provide practical guidance and ensure that people are aware of the options and services available to them before they are needed. We're particularly proud to share that our very own Island radio 88.6 radio announcer, Bobby Gee, had the opportunity to be involved in the campaign here in Greece. Bobby joined representatives and participants as part of the awareness initiative, helping to highlight the importance of planning ahead and staying informed. The campaign's message is simple: whether you've recently moved to Greece or have called it home for many years, taking time to plan for your future can provide peace of mind for both you and your loved ones. Here are some exclusive behind-the-scenes photos from the campaign activities in Greece, featuring Bobby Gee and others who helped bring this important message to the British expat community. As more information becomes available, we'll continue to share updates and resources to help our listeners and readers make informed decisions about their future in Greece. The third Emergency call within a week!  Emergency services were mobilised this week at Navagio (Shipwreck Beach) after a woman called 112 expressing fears for her safety. The response involved the Fire Service, Civil Protection, EKAB, the Police and other agencies, all of whom rushed to the scene to provide assistance.
Fortunately, by the time emergency crews arrived, the woman had already been helped to safety by a member of the public and no further intervention was required. While it is good news that the incident ended safely, the report leaves many unanswered questions. Officials have not explained why the woman was in danger or what circumstances led to the emergency call. As a result, we can only speculate. Given the location and the area's well-known safety restrictions, it is reasonable to wonder whether the individual may have been outside the designated safety zone or beyond the protective barriers. What is particularly concerning is that this is not an isolated incident. Within the last few days alone, emergency services have been called upon to assist people who have placed themselves in potentially dangerous situations. Every unnecessary rescue operation diverts valuable resources and personnel who may be needed elsewhere for genuine emergencies. Navagio remains one of Zakynthos' most iconic attractions, but it is also an area where safety rules exist for a reason. Visitors are urged to respect warning signs, barriers and restricted zones designed to protect both tourists and emergency responders. The latest incident ended without injury, and credit should go to the citizen who assisted the woman and to the emergency services that responded so quickly. However, the growing number of incidents involving risky behaviour should be a concern for everyone. Preventing accidents is always better than responding to them.  The team at Giostra di Zante has announced the programme for Giostra Zakynthos 2026, one of the island's most anticipated cultural events.
Each year, Giostra transports locals and visitors back in time, celebrating the rich history and traditions of Zakynthos through spectacular parades, medieval costumes, music, equestrian displays and historical reenactments. Whether you're a history enthusiast or simply looking for a unique family experience, Giostra 2026 promises a memorable weekend for all ages. Friday 29th May 2026 19:45 – Gathering outside the Zakynthos Sub-Region building. 20:15 – Solomos Square
19:30 – Agioi Sarandes Square (Pedestrian Street) Parade of the Children's Giostra Groups. The procession will travel through Alexandrou Roma Street and Dimokratias Avenue, finishing in Solomos Square. 20:00 Children's Giostra Performance. Jousting competition NEW FOR 2026! For the first time, medieval games and activities will be held for the whole family to enjoy. Visitors of all ages will have the opportunity to take part in interactive challenges inspired by medieval traditions, making Saturday's celebrations even more exciting and family-friendly. Sunday 31st May 2026 19:00 – Agioi Sarandes Square (Pedestrian Street) The Grand Parade of all Giostra 2026 teams and the equestrian competition. The procession will follow Alexandrou Roma Street and Dimokratias Avenue, ending at Solomos Square. 20:00 Giostra 2026 Competition. Knights on horses battling for the rings. La Lucera! Arrival of the winner. The celebrations will conclude with a spectacular fireworks display, bringing another unforgettable Giostra weekend to a close. If you would like to experience Zakynthos' history, culture and traditions first-hand, Giostra 2026 is an event not to be missed. |
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