Ryanair is moving toward a final decision to shut down its Thessaloniki base from autumn, according to an internal briefing to employees by the company’s management—the only group to have received official information so far. The issue continues to concern local stakeholders, who had scheduled a meeting at 14:30 in the city, warning of a potential blow to tourism.

Just moments ago, the Irish airline sent out invitations for a press conference in Athens on Friday, May 8, with Chief Commercial Officer Jason McGuinness expected to attend.

Sources from Fraport Greece, the operator of “Makedonia” Airport, told newmoney that they have not yet received any official notification from the airline regarding the base closure. Ryanair currently stations three aircraft at its Thessaloniki base and, citing high charges, is now moving toward closing it from autumn 2026 ahead of the winter season.

Maintaining a base at an airport effectively means it functions as an operational hub, involving the permanent presence of aircraft, crews, and technical support, as well as increased connectivity. Closing the base in Thessaloniki will lead to cuts in direct routes, although it remains unclear which international connections will be dropped in the upcoming winter (low) season.

However, employees were told that the picture regarding which routes will be maintained is expected to become clearer within the week. The possibility of reopening the base at a later stage has not been ruled out, given that Thessaloniki and its tourism sector have been on an upward trajectory since last year.

Ryanair is known for its strategy of closing bases at European airports when it deems other markets more profitable, only to return at a later stage—a pattern it has followed in Greece as well, including in major tourist destinations such as Chania and Rhodes.

It is also noted that another broad meeting of local stakeholders is scheduled for later today, following a similar gathering earlier in the week after news of the potential closure emerged. The meeting, initiated by the municipality, aims to provide a comprehensive update and establish a common stance among all parties, including representatives from neighboring municipalities, the regional authority, local chambers, the hotel association, and other stakeholders.