Pilot flights from Jordan to Rhodes in September

At the same time, regional authorities are reaching out to new Middle Eastern markets with participation as honored destination at a Roadshow in Lebanon on October 19-21.

The regional body has for the past years launched a comprehensive media strategy to promote the islands of its jurisdiction but also strengthened its campaign in view of the refugee crisis repercussions on some of the islands with participation in the Tehran, Abu Dhabi and Riyadh Roadshows, thus expanding into the Middle East market.

“Our goal is to open the door to Middle Eastern markets which will be demonstrating a growing momentum in the coming years. It is this momentum that we seek to capitalize on in every way for the benefit of our islands,” said Aegean Region Vice Governor of Tourism, Marietta Papavasileiou.

Rhodes Airport has been given priority status due to its size as it can serve as a crossover hub for travel from Middle Eastern countries into Europe.