 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 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. 
Every great musical composition hides a story behind it. Some are born from technical mastery, others from personal experiences. But in the case of the Anthem of the Giostra of Zakynthos, the inspiration feels almost like stepping into another world — a world of knights, banners, drums, moonlit celebrations, and the living spirit of Zakynthian history.
The creator of the anthem, Zois Fonteinopoulos, did not simply compose a piece of music for an event. Instead, he created a musical work deeply connected to the soul of the Giostra itself — a composition shaped by emotion, imagination, and cultural memory. In this interview, Zois speaks openly about the inspiration behind the anthem, the importance of cultural heritage, the creative process, and the message he hopes the music will carry to future generations. 
"I mentally traveled back to that era” Q: What inspired you to create the Anthem of Giostra? Zois Fonteinopoulos: “The first seed of inspiration was planted one spring afternoon when I was at the Giostra grounds with my good friend Giannis Milesis, who was explaining to me the rhythmic drum patterns used during the parade performances. While he was speaking, my eyes wandered toward the banners and the images of the knights around the space… and suddenly I became immersed in that world. I can honestly say I mentally traveled back to that era. The inspiration came directly from my connection with the Giostra itself and with the history of Zakynthos — the pain of that period, but also the bravery and dignity of the people who lived through it.” As Zois explains, the structure of the composition mirrors that emotional journey. The anthem begins softly and gradually grows into a powerful climax, reflecting scenes of celebration and life from another time: “Girls with ribbons dancing in illuminated squares and young men accompanying them under the moonlight.” Music Inspired by Living Tradition. For more than twenty years, the Giostra Di Zante has remained one of Zakynthos’ most recognizable cultural institutions, reviving medieval traditions and connecting modern audiences with the island’s rich historical identity. Q: What does your participation in Giostra Di Zante mean to you personally? Zois Fonteinopoulos: “Being part of the Giostra Association feels like having direct contact with the history of the island itself. And I’m not speaking only about the event, but about everything the name Giostra and Zakynthos represents culturally and emotionally.” This deep emotional connection is evident throughout the anthem itself. Rather than functioning as simple background music for a historical reenactment, the composition captures the atmosphere and spirit of the Giostra experience.
Music Is a Universal Language
Throughout the interview, Zois repeatedly returns to the emotional power of music and its ability to preserve culture beyond words. Q: Do you believe music can help preserve cultural tradition? Zois Fonteinopoulos: “Not only do I believe it — I am certain of it. Music is a universal language. You hear the melodies and immediately understand the culture and civilization behind them. So yes, music can preserve our traditions and also carry them beyond Zakynthos.” That philosophy shaped every part of the anthem’s creation. Initially written for guitar, bass, and drums, the composition later expanded to include mandolins, adding a distinctly Zakynthian musical color rooted in the island’s traditional sound. A Collective Creation Although the creative process itself was deeply personal, Zois emphasizes that the final result could not have existed without the collaboration of talented musicians and friends. Q: What was the most difficult part of the creative process? Zois Fonteinopoulos: “When I create, I embrace isolation. That part is actually easy for me because it allows me to organize my thoughts and shape the work step by step. The difficult part comes later, when many people must work together professionally and consistently. Fortunately, with the Giostra Anthem, I was surrounded by exceptional people full of positivity, talent, and humility.” He also expressed heartfelt gratitude to the musicians who contributed to the final recording:
From Composition to Cultural Legacy
The anthem was officially presented live for the first time in 2025 during the closing ceremony of the Giostra celebrations in Zakynthos’ central square, attended by local authorities and international delegations. Q: Would you like the anthem to accompany future Giostra events officially? Zois Fonteinopoulos: “The anthem has already served its purpose once, and my wish is for it to continue being heard forever. It is a small cultural legacy that my collaborators and I created with great love for future generations.” A Message Beyond Music At its core, the Anthem of the Giostra of Zakynthos is more than a composition inspired by medieval history. It is a work about humanity, memory, courage, and cultural identity. Q: What message would you like listeners to take from the anthem? Zois Fonteinopoulos: “The message is simple: peace, humanity, and love for our fellow human beings and for nature. Before we act, we should think about whether our actions will have a positive impact on ourselves and on society as a whole. Only then can people live more harmoniously with the world around them.” 
The Anthem of the Giostra of Zakynthos stands as a powerful reminder that music can do far more than entertain. It can preserve memory, honor tradition, and unite generations through shared emotion and identity.
For Zois Fonteinopoulos, the anthem was not simply written for the Giostra — it was born from within it. Through its melodies, the medieval spirit of Zakynthos continues to live on, inspiring modern audiences with the same courage, dignity, and imagination that shaped the island’s history centuries ago. Some photos have been enhanced by AI  The island of Zakynthos will honor one of the most important milestones in Ionian history on Thursday, May 21, 2026, marking the anniversary of the Union of the Ionian Islands with Greece through a series of commemorative events and ceremonies.
The day’s celebrations will begin at 10:30 a.m. with an official doxology service at the Holy Church of the Ascension. The ceremony will be officiated by Metropolitan Dionysios IV of Zakynthos, accompanied by the clergy of the city. The keynote address will be delivered by philologist and educator Maria Agriou. At 11:00 a.m., officials and attendees will gather at the Heroes’ Memorial for a memorial service and wreath-laying ceremony, followed by a tribute at the bust of Konstantinos Lombardos, one of the leading advocates of the Union movement. The commemorative parade will begin at 11:30 a.m. in front of the Regional Unit of Zakynthos building. Students from primary and secondary schools, members of the Greek Guides and Scouts, and local cultural associations will participate in the procession. Afterwards, Deputy Regional Governor Konstantinos Kapodistrias will welcome citizens, political representatives, and local authorities at the Administrative Building. Later in the afternoon, at 1:00 p.m., another memorial service and wreath-laying ceremony will take place at the monument of Giannis Klavdianos in Fioliti. The tribute honors Ioannis Klavdianos, known as “Fiolitaios,” who was executed by the British authorities following the historical events of Ypsolithos. The commemorations will conclude at 7:00 p.m. with a tribute ceremony at the Venetian Castle of Zakynthos. A trisagion memorial prayer will be held in the former prison cells, followed by the lowering of the Greek flag at sunset. The anniversary remains a deeply significant occasion for the Ionian Islands, celebrating the historic union with Greece in 1864 and honoring those who contributed to the struggle for national unity.  Planning your holiday to Zakynthos and wondering what the weather will be like? The island enjoys a beautiful Mediterranean climate with long hot summers, mild winters and plenty of sunshine throughout the year. To help you decide the best time to visit — and what to pack — we’ve created this simple month-by-month weather guide including average temperatures and mosquito activity levels. Whether you’re coming for beach days, sightseeing, boat trips or relaxing evenings by the sea, here’s what you can expect in Zakynthos throughout the season.  Spring in Zakynthos (April – May) Spring is one of the most beautiful times to visit the island. The countryside is green, flowers are blooming and temperatures are pleasantly warm without the intense summer heat. April and May are ideal for:
 Summer in Zakynthos (June – August) Summer brings long sunny days, warm seas and very little rain. July and August are the hottest and busiest months, perfect for beach lovers and nightlife. Expect:
 Autumn in Zakynthos (September – October) Many visitors consider September the perfect month to visit Zakynthos. The sea is still beautifully warm after summer, while temperatures become slightly more comfortable. October remains warm compared to much of Europe, although occasional rain showers become more likely later in the month. Autumn is perfect for:
 Mosquitoes in Zakynthos – What Visitors Should Know Mosquitoes are common in many Mediterranean destinations, including Zakynthos, especially during the warmer months. Mosquito activity is usually:
 Best Time to Visit Zakynthos
Final Tips for Visitors.The Greek sun can feel much stronger than many visitors expect, particularly during midsummer. Always:
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