Heraklion Airport Live Departures

Flying out of Heraklion International Airport “Nikos Kazantzakis” (HER)? Check the live departures board on this page for your gate and any delay, then work back from your flight time for check-in and security. HER is a single, compact terminal, but summer queues can be long, so timing matters. Here is how departure works.

Checking live departures

The live board shows departure times, status and, closer to the flight, the gate. Check it before you leave for the airport in case of a delay, and again once you are airside so you head to the right gate in good time.

How early should you arrive?

Allow about two hours for a Schengen flight and three for a non-Schengen international flight, adding a buffer in July and August. Check-in and bag drop usually close 40–60 minutes before departure. See the timing guide for the detail.

Check-in and bag drop

Check in online where your airline allows it to save time, then use bag drop for hold luggage. If you are travelling hand-luggage only, you may be able to go straight to security — but confirm your airline does not require a desk visit first.

Security and passport control

Everyone passes through security screening; have liquids and electronics ready. Non-Schengen departures also clear passport control. Once airside there are shops, cafes and lounges while you wait.

Boarding

The gate is a short walk from security in this compact terminal, but gates can close 20–30 minutes before take-off, earlier than many expect. Watch the board and listen for calls, and head to the gate once it is shown.

Getting to the airport in time

The airport is about 5 km from central Heraklion. Allow for summer traffic on the coast road and, from the resorts, much longer — a pre-booked transfer takes the timing worry away. See the transport guide.

Frequently asked questions

How do I check departures at Heraklion Airport?
Use the live departures board on this page for times, status and the gate.

How early should I arrive?
About 2 hours for Schengen and 3 for non-Schengen flights, more in peak summer.

When does the gate close?
Often 20–30 minutes before take-off — do not leave it to the last minute.

What is there to do after security?
Shops, cafes and lounges are all airside.