Paderborn’s Crete Flights Get a Second Airline
Paderborn/Lippstadt Airport in western Germany is adding another airline to its Crete programme for summer 2027. Cologne-based LEAV Aviation will begin nonstop flights to Heraklion in April, joining Freebird Europe, which is returning later in the season. The airport says both carriers will offer two departures a week, giving local holidaymakers more choice without travelling to a larger airport for a flight to Greece.
Paderborn–Crete Flights: Summer 2027 Plans
- Route: Paderborn/Lippstadt (PAD)–Heraklion (HER), Greece, nonstop.
- New airline: LEAV Aviation, using an Airbus A320.
- LEAV launch: Saturday, 24 April 2027.
- LEAV frequency: Wednesdays and Saturdays, twice weekly.
- Existing carrier: Freebird Europe, returning on Saturday, 15 May 2027.
- Freebird frequency: Thursdays and Saturdays, twice weekly.
- Season: Summer 2027; end date not announced.
- Times and fares: Not provided in the airport's announcement.
LEAV's arrival adds capacity to a route already offered by Freebird rather than creating an entirely new destination. The airline's cheapest LEAVnaked fare includes one small bag weighing up to 5kg; a larger cabin bag costs €18 online and a first 20kg checked suitcase costs €25. Package-holiday bookings may have different allowances, so compare the baggage terms before choosing a ticket.
Heraklion makes a convenient base for Crete's north coast and historic sites. The Palace of Knossos lies just outside the city, while the Heraklion Archaeological Museum houses artefacts from Minoan civilisation. Travellers can also continue to Hersonissos and Malia for beach resorts or head east towards Agios Nikolaos. Intercity buses serve several of these destinations, though timings depend on where you stay.
Once both airlines are operating, Paderborn will have up to four departures a week to Heraklion, but on only three different days: Wednesday, Thursday and Saturday. The two Saturday services may offer more choice, rather than an extra travel day. The airport has yet to announce flight times, final operating dates or starting fares. Check the individual services before booking accommodation or arranging airport transfers.