It is going to serve 10,000,000 passengers at the start, while during the concession period it is expected to exceed 18,000,000. It is a “green airport” with its own production and management of energy, while responding to the need to address climate change, emphasis will be placed on reducing the CO2 footprint. Another feature is the implementation of the highest criteria in the provision of Services, according to the specifications of internationally recognized organizations in the industry (ACI ASQ, IATA Optimum Level). The New Airport is intended to have a harmonious relationship with the local community and to promote it. For this reason, continuous actions in support of the local community and promoting the local cultural heritage are already taking place, while providing the visitor with a sense of the place and its unique characteristics. At the same time, as a modern infrastructure, the latest technology and innovative applications will be at the forefront, along with reaching strategic commercial agreements.

The International Airport is going to include a Commercial Zone accessible from the urban fabric, properly integrated in the wider residential and spatial development of the area of 700 acres. Regarding the access to the Airport, the first major connection of North and South Crete is achieved with the longitudinal axis that connect Hersonissos with Southern Crete, 25 km long, while upon the completion of the construction of the North Road Axis of Crete (BOAK) it is estimated the Airport to be accessible from Heraklion in less than 25 minutes.