Local authorities in Thessaloniki address potential closure of Ryanair base

Thessaloniki officials are engaged in urgent discussions regarding the potential closure of the Ryanair base at Macedonia Airport, which could take effect from October 2026. The airline has reportedly cited a 15% increase in contract renewal costs and high fees imposed by the airport operator, Fraport Greece, as primary reasons for the potential exit. Mayor Stelios Angeloudis and Deputy Regional Governor Vicky Chatzivasiliou have held online meetings with company management to clarify these intentions. While Ryanair has not issued an official public statement, local stakeholders express significant concern over the potential loss of flight operations and negative impacts on the city's tourism. Regional authorities have reached out to the Ministry of Tourism and the Greek National Tourism Organization to coordinate a response. Currently, no final decisions have been reached by the company, and further consultations between the stakeholders and the airline are ongoing. The situation remains fluid as city leaders seek to negotiate terms that would maintain the airline's presence in the region.