Pingitore Criticizes Proposal to Close Crotone Airport as Unacceptable: Trebisacce Mayor’s Plan Opposes Unique Aviation Opportunities

October 11, 2025

Regional Leader Defends Crotone Airport Amid Closure Proposal

Crotone, Italy – A heated debate is unfolding in the Calabria region of Italy, centering around the future of the Sant’Anna Airport in Crotone. Iginio Pingitore,the group leader of “Tired of the Usual Ones,” has strongly criticized a proposal by Trebisacce Mayor Franco Mundo to close the Crotone airport,advocating instead for a new airport in sibari.

Strategic Importance Underlined

Pingitore labeled the suggestion to shut down the Crotone facility as “out of place and perilous,” particularly given the airport’s recent positive trajectory. He highlighted the ongoing investments, including upgrades to the Canadair base, as evidence of the airport’s growing meaning. according to data from Italy’s National Institute of Statistics, regional air travel has increased by 15% year-over-year as of Q3 2025, demonstrating a rising demand for air connectivity.

“The Crotone airport is not a mere convenience but a vital strategic asset for a territory already grappling with isolation and inadequate infrastructure,” Pingitore asserted.

road Infrastructure Debate

Mayor Mundo justified his proposal by referencing the planned reconstruction of the SS106 highway, anticipating that the improved road network would redirect traffic towards Lamezia Airport. However, Pingitore dismissed this as “shortsighted and misleading.” He pointed out that the completion of the SS106 project remains years away, if it materializes at all. Did You Know? The SS106 is notorious for being one of Italy’s most dangerous roads, with a disproportionately high accident rate.

“In the interim, the Crotone airport remains the sole functioning air transportation hub in the region,” Pingitore stated.

A Cautionary Tale of Regional Priorities

Drawing upon a local Calabrian proverb, Pingitore cautioned against dismantling existing infrastructure in favor of hypothetical future developments. He warned, “You cannot construct something new by demolishing what already exists, especially within a vulnerable territory like ours.”

Call for Unified regional Support

pingitore has directly appealed to Sergio ferrari,the newly appointed regional representative,and Vito Pitaro,a regional councilor,urging them to take “clear,definitive,and brave stances” to protect the Crotone airport. He emphasized the need for a cohesive regional strategy, advocating for investments that benefit all areas of Calabria. Pro Tip: Staying informed about local infrastructure projects can substantially impact economic opportunities and quality of life in a region.

“Calabria requires vision and collaboration, not narrow-minded parochialism,” Pingitore concluded. “We must invest in both areas, not at the expense of one another, and prioritize respect for communities facing daily isolation.”

Airport	Location	Current status	Proposed Changes
Sant’Anna Airport	Crotone	Operational, undergoing upgrades	Defense against closure
Proposed Sibari Airport	Sibari	Currently non-existent	Proposed as a replacement for Crotone Airport

The Importance of Regional Airports

Regional airports play a critical role in fostering economic growth and connecting underserved communities. They provide essential access for tourism, business travel, and emergency services. The debate surrounding the Crotone Airport highlights a broader trend: the ongoing tension between centralized infrastructure development and the need to support local economies. Studies by the European Commission have consistently shown that improved regional connectivity can lead to increased GDP and job creation.

Frequently Asked Questions about the Crotone Airport

What are your thoughts on the balance between new infrastructure and maintaining existing regional assets? Share your opinion in the comments below!

Do you think this debate reflects a wider trend of neglected regional infrastructure in Italy? Let us know!

What are the potential economic consequences of closing crotone Airport for businesses and tourism in the Calabria region?

The escalating debate surrounding the potential closure of Crotone Airport (KRU) has ignited strong opposition, most notably from calabria region President Roberto Occhiuto and Trebisacce Mayor Alessandro Pingitore. The proposed closure, linked to a plan championed by the Mayor of Trebisacce to develop an alternative aviation hub, is being widely criticized as detrimental to the region’s connectivity and economic prospects. This article delves into the specifics of the controversy, the arguments for and against the closure, and the potential impact on tourism, business travel, and regional growth.

The Proposed Closure & Trebisacce’s Alternative Plan

The current proposal suggests shuttering Crotone Airport to consolidate aviation services within a newly developed facility in Trebisacce. Proponents argue this consolidation will streamline operations and create a more financially enduring airport infrastructure for the province of Crotone.However, critics, including Mayor Pingitore, contend that the plan overlooks the unique advantages offered by Crotone Airport and the disruption its closure would cause.

* Trebisacce’s Vision: The Trebisacce plan envisions a larger, more modern airport capable of handling increased passenger and cargo traffic. This includes potential for low-cost carrier (LCC) expansion and improved connections to international destinations.

* Financial Justification: Supporters point to Crotone Airport’s consistent financial losses as a key driver for the proposed change. They beleive a centralized,efficiently managed airport in Trebisacce will attract investment and generate economic benefits.

* Infrastructure Concerns: The feasibility of rapidly developing the necessary infrastructure in Trebisacce to accommodate the displaced traffic from Crotone remains a significant point of contention.

Why Crotone Airport Matters: Unique Aviation Opportunities

Crotone Airport, despite its size, plays a crucial role in connecting Calabria to the rest of Italy and Europe. Its closure would eliminate vital air links, notably for tourism and business travel.

Tourism Impact

Crotone and the surrounding region rely heavily on tourism, especially during the summer months. The airport provides direct access for visitors from key European cities, bypassing lengthy and often inconvenient ground transportation options.

* Direct Flights: Crotone Airport currently offers seasonal direct flights to destinations like Germany, Poland, and the UK, catering specifically to the tourist market.

* Coastal Access: The airport serves as a gateway to the Ionian coast of Calabria,a popular destination for beach holidays and water sports.

* Cultural Tourism: Proximity to archaeological sites and past towns makes Crotone an attractive destination for cultural tourism, further supported by air connectivity.

Business & economic Considerations

Beyond tourism, Crotone Airport supports local businesses and facilitates economic activity.

* Regional Trade: The airport enables the efficient transport of goods and personnel, supporting trade and investment in the region.

* Emergency Services: Crotone Airport provides a crucial landing point for emergency medical services and disaster relief operations.

* Job Creation: The airport directly and indirectly employs a significant number of people in the local community.

Pingitore’s strong Opposition & Regional Concerns

Mayor Pingitore has been vocal in his criticism of the closure proposal, emphasizing the detrimental impact on Crotone’s economy and the loss of valuable aviation opportunities. He argues that the Trebisacce plan is not a viable alternative and fails to address the immediate needs of the region.

* Connectivity Loss: Pingitore highlights the potential for significant disruption to air travel for residents and visitors alike.

* Economic Downturn: He warns that the closure could lead to a decline in tourism revenue and business investment.

* Infrastructure Delays: Concerns are raised about the timeline for completing the infrastructure development in Trebisacce, potentially leaving the region without adequate air service for an extended period.

* Regional Disparity: Critics suggest the plan favors trebisacce at the expense of Crotone, exacerbating existing regional disparities.

The Role of Calabria Region & Future Outlook

The final decision regarding the future of Crotone Airport rests with the Calabria Region. President Occhiuto has expressed reservations about the closure, acknowledging the importance of maintaining air connectivity to the region.

* Investment in Crotone: Calls are growing for increased investment in crotone Airport to improve its infrastructure and financial performance.

* Sustainable Aviation: Discussions are underway regarding the implementation of sustainable aviation practices to reduce the environmental impact of air travel in Calabria.

* Stakeholder Engagement: A extensive consultation process involving local communities, businesses, and tourism operators is crucial to ensure a fair and equitable outcome.

Keywords & Related search Terms

* Crotone Airport

* Trebisacce Airport

* Calabria Airports

* Italian Airports

* Airport Closure

* Regional Aviation

* Tourism Calabria

* Roberto Occhiuto

* alessandro Pingitore

* KRU Airport

* Low-Cost Carriers (LCC)

* Air Connectivity

* Regional Development

* Italian Tourism

* Airport Infrastructure

* Sustainable Aviation

* Calabria Travel

* crotone Tourism

* trebisacce Tourism

* Airport Investment