Major disruptions hit the island of Crete on Monday as large-scale farmer protests escalated into violent clashes with police, culminating in the shutdown of Heraklion’s international airport. Demonstrators also attempted to block access to Chania Airport, where further confrontations were reported.
Farmers, livestock breeders, beekeepers and fishermen from across Crete had launched a motorized march toward Heraklion Airport, aiming to surround the facility as part of their broader nationwide protest movement. Organizers estimate participation at around 4,000 people.
Security forces had preemptively sealed off all access to the airport—officially named “Nikos Kazantzakis”—using police vans, patrol cars and riot units. When protesters attempted to break through the blockade, police responded with tear gas, sound grenades and smoke devices. Demonstrators threw stones in return as they tried to push toward the airport’s main gate.
Despite the heavy police presence, protesters eventually reached the airport grounds. According to local reports, a group entered the tarmac area, forcing authorities to suspend operations and halt flights. Negotiations are reportedly underway to remove the demonstrators.
Travel Chaos for Passengers
With the surrounding roads blocked, many travelers were forced to walk to the airport terminal. Significant traffic disruptions followed, as vehicles became trapped in congested routes and some drivers were directed to make improvised U-turns through medians and narrow spaces to escape the gridlock.
Tensions Spread to Chania
Similar scenes unfolded near Chania’s “Ioannis Daskalogiannis” Airport, where hundreds of protesters attempted to block the main entrance. Police prevented them from reaching the terminal, leading to clashes involving tear gas on one side and stones and wooden sticks on the other. Early reports indicate both a civilian and a police officer were injured
“The Airport Will Be Blocked”
Speaking to local media, a representative of the Pan-Cretan Coordination Committee said the protesters intended to block access near the airport’s roundabout, not inside the terminal itself. “People are not stopping. The airport will be blocked,” he said, calling for continued pressure on authorities.
The protests on Crete form part of a wider wave of agricultural demonstrations across Greece, now numbering more than 50 roadblocks nationwide. Farmers are demanding solutions to rising production costs, market pressures and long-standing policy grievances.
