Ioannina aspires to become the “Lake Como” of Greece with the return of seaplanes…

Ioannina welcomes seaplanes back to Lake Pamvotida after 15 years of absence. The first test flight of a seaplane on this historic lake was a complete success, bringing the vision of establishing regular air connections with other destinations in Greece, as well as abroad, such as Albania, closer to reality.

Hellenic Seaplanes, a pioneer in the field of seaplanes, plans to revive the water airport in Ioannina, connecting the city with Corfu, Paxos, the Diapontian Islands, and now with destinations in Albania. Gradually, flights will expand to other destinations, making Ioannina a hub for international air connections.

The first test flights were successfully conducted between September 24-26, with takeoffs and landings taking place at the facilities of the Naval Club of Ioannina. The residents of Ioannina and Epirus had the opportunity to watch the flights up close, experiencing the new chapter opening for their city.

The President and CEO of Hellenic Seaplanes, Mr. Nicolas Charalambous, stated: “The establishment and operation of a water airport in Ioannina and its connection to the Ionian Islands, the coastal municipalities of Western Greece, and Albania will provide the region with new development prospects. These prospects are based on enhancing the tourism, trade, and business sectors of the country, through the introduction of a new, flexible, and safe transportation medium. Seaplanes have been tested for decades in many foreign countries and have proven to be a reliable solution for both countries as an additional transportation option.”

The Governor of Epirus, Mr. Alexandros Kachrimanis, supported: “The operation of seaplanes is a dynamic way to promote the extroversion of Ioannina, boosting tourism in all of Epirus and creating new opportunities for local entrepreneurship. Ioannina and Lake Pamvotida are now on the map for alternative forms of transportation and tourism.”

The Deputy Mayor of Commerce, Development, Entrepreneurship, and Tourism of Ioannina, Mr. Christos Tatsis, stated: “The return of seaplanes to our area is an important development for Ioannina. The seaplane project upgrades our infrastructure and offers alternative transportation options for our citizens and visitors. Ioannina is becoming a hub for important air connections again, and we are proud to see our city return to the forefront of the map with seaplanes. This endeavor opens new prospects for the tourism and economic development of our region.”

The Member of Parliament for Ioannina, Ms. Maria Kefala, added: “The return of seaplanes to Lake Pamvotida and the connection with destinations in the rest of Greece is expected to enhance tourism and promote the local economy. The water airport of Lake Pamvotida is expected to be completed soon, while in the meantime, flights will be conducted through the Ioannina Airport. The development of this new form of transportation is expected to contribute to the tourism and economic flourishing of the area.”

Finally, the member of the Ioannina Hoteliers Association, Mr. Stathis Sioutis, stated: “Seaplanes are a proven and reliable transportation choice, especially due to their safety and flexibility. They stand out for their versatility, are environmentally friendly, and coexist harmoniously with other means of transportation such as ships and private boats. The operation of a water airport on Lake Ioannina will add value to the region, offering visitors a new, attractive way of transportation and connection to tourist destinations such as Corfu, Patras, and Paxos, with the potential for expansion to Croatia, Albania, and Italy.”