The picturesque Amalfi Coast, with its pastel-painted villages and lemon grove terraced cliffs, attracts around five million tourists annually. However, reaching this UNESCO-designated region has often been a challenge, involving a lengthy journey from Naples airport through a combination of trains and buses. This year, travelers can rejoice as a closer and more convenient option becomes available.
Key Points
- Salerno Costa d’Amalfi Airport reopens for commercial flights in July.
- Easier access to the Amalfi Coast, reducing travel time and hassle.
- New flight routes announced by Volotea and EasyJet.
Salerno Costa d’Amalfi Airport Reopens
After a significant facelift, Salerno Costa d’Amalfi Airport (QSR) is set to commence international commercial flights in mid-July. Situated 28 miles southeast of Amalfi and 13 miles from Salerno, this airport will now serve as a major entry point to the famed Amalfi Coast.
Originally built in 1926, the airport has a varied history, having served as a military base, a flying school, a firefighting center, and a private airfield. In 2007, efforts were made to open it up to commercial flights, but the airport ceased operations in 2016. Now, it is ready to reopen, featuring an extended runway and ongoing construction of a new passenger terminal, expected to be completed by 2027.
Improved Access to the Amalfi Coast
The reopening of Salerno Costa d’Amalfi Airport marks a significant improvement in accessibility to the Amalfi Coast. Travelers can now bypass the cumbersome journey from Naples, opting instead for direct flights that bring them much closer to their destination.
Upcoming Flight Routes
On July 11, Spanish budget airline Volotea will begin commercial operations from Salerno Costa d’Amalfi Airport. The airline has announced four initial routes: Cagliari, Verona, and Catania within Italy, and Nantes in France. Flights to Nantes and Cagliari will start in July, while services to Verona and Catania are scheduled to begin in September.
In addition, EasyJet will offer direct flights to Salerno Costa d’Amalfi from London Gatwick and Basel. This expanded network of flights is expected to significantly boost tourism in the region.
Future Development and Impact
The development of Salerno Costa d’Amalfi Airport is set to continue until 2043, with the aim of eventually accommodating six million passengers annually. This ambitious project has been welcomed by tourism and hospitality businesses along the Amalfi Coast, which anticipate increased visitor numbers and economic benefits. However, there are also concerns about the potential strain on the area’s infrastructure and natural environment due to the surge in tourism.
Final Thoughts
The reopening of Salerno Costa d’Amalfi Airport as a commercial travel hub is a game-changer for access to the Amalfi Coast. With new flight routes reducing travel time and hassle, visitors can more easily enjoy the stunning beauty and cultural richness of this Italian gem. As the region prepares for an influx of tourists, the balance between promoting tourism and preserving the environment will be crucial to maintaining the Amalfi Coast’s allure.
