PMO Airport: Palermo Airport (IATA: PMO – ICAO: LICJ), officially known as Falcone–Borsellino Airport, is the primary international airport serving the city of Palermo and the northwest region of Sicily, Italy. Located about 35 kilometers (22 miles) west of Palermo city center, the airport is named in honor of anti-mafia judges Giovanni Falcone and Paolo Borsellino.
PMO is one of southern Italy’s busiest airports, offering connections across Europe and seasonal service to North Africa and the Middle East. It is a hub for Ryanair and Volotea.
Travelers use PMO Airport for business trips, vacations, and to explore the rich history of Sicily. With a growing number of direct flights and modern facilities, it has become a popular entry point for both local and international visitors.
Those arriving at Palermo Airport can expect easy access to rental cars, public transportation, and taxis, making it convenient to start their journey on the island. For more details about PMO, including its routes and services, visit the official Palermo Airport website.
Contents
- 1 General Information
- 2 Parking Information
- 3 Contact Information
- 4 Passenger Information
- 5
- 6 Airlines and Flight Operations
- 7 Passenger Services and Facilities
- 8 Local Attractions
- 9 Travel Tips
- 10 Frequently Asked Questions
- 10.1 How can I access international flights at Palermo Airport?
- 10.2 What are the available facilities at Palermo Airport?
- 10.3 What airlines operate out of Palermo Airport?
- 10.4 How can I find the status of departures from Palermo Airport?
- 10.5 What are the transportation options to and from Palermo Airport?
- 10.6 Are there any lounges available at Palermo Airport?
- 10.7 Related
General Information
Location: Cinisi, Palermo, Sicily, Italy
Country: Italy
Airport Type: Public, International
IATA Code: PMO
ICAO Code: LICJ
Elevation: 65 feet (20 metres)
Coordinates: 38°10′46″N 013°05′18″E
Timezone: UTC+1 (CET) / UTC+2 (CEST during Daylight Saving Time)
Distance from City Centre: Approx. 35 km (22 miles) west of Palermo
Website: www.gesap.it
Operator: GESAP S.p.A.
Services: International and domestic flights, general aviation, cargo operations
Parking Information
Short-Term Parking
Rate: Approx. €3/hour
Distance: Near the terminal
Ideal For: Passenger pick-ups, drop-offs, and short visits
Long-Term Parking
Rate: From €12/day
Distance: Shuttle or walking access depending on lot
Ideal For: Multi-day and holiday travel
Payment Methods: Credit/debit cards, cash, mobile app
Security: Gated, with CCTV and staff patrols
Contact Information
Airport Info Line: +39 091 7020111
Email: info@gesap.it
FBO Services: General aviation and VIP services managed through Sky Services Palermo
Passenger Information
Immigration Requirements: Schengen visa for non-EU citizens; EU ID/passport for European nationals
Crew Requirements: Passport, crew ID/licence, General Declaration
Transport Options: Trains, taxis, buses, rental cars, private transfers
Nearby Accommodation: Magaggiari Hotel Resort, Florio Park Hotel, Palazzo Natoli Boutique Hotel (Palermo)
Currency: Euro (EUR); credit cards widely accepted
Location and Accessibility
Palermo Airport is located in the Cinisi area, about 35 kilometers west of Palermo, the capital of Sicily. This location allows for easy access to the city as well as nearby coastal towns. The airport is connected to Palermo by regular train and bus services, which provide frequent and affordable transportation options for passengers.
By car, travelers can reach the airport using the A29 motorway, which links directly to Palermo and surrounding regions. Parking is available for both short and long stays, with free parking for up to 15 minutes in certain areas to allow convenient pick-ups and drop-offs. Taxis and rental cars are also widely available, making it simple to continue a journey into the city or other Sicilian destinations.
The airport’s coastal setting gives arriving and departing passengers scenic views of the Mediterranean Sea and nearby mountains. Because it is positioned outside the city, it experiences less congestion than airports located in more urban areas. More details on location can be found at the official airport site for Palermo Airport.
History and Development
Palermo Airport, originally named Punta Raisi Airport, opened in 1960. When it was first built, the airport had two simple runways and basic facilities. Over the years, it has expanded and modernized to handle more flights and passengers, reflecting the growth of tourism and business in Sicily.
The airport was named Falcone–Borsellino Airport in honor of two famous anti-mafia judges, Giovanni Falcone and Paolo Borsellino, who were both from Palermo. Major upgrades have included new terminals, improved baggage facilities, and expanded runways to support larger aircraft. The airport continues to update its infrastructure to enhance safety and comfort for travelers. For more about its past and changes over time, see this brief history of Palermo Airport.
Palermo Airport IATA Code
Palermo Airport uses the IATA code PMO. This three-letter code is important for airline schedules, ticketing, and luggage handling. Travelers booking flights to Sicily or arranging airport transport should look for this code to avoid confusion with other airports in Italy.
The code PMO is widely used by airlines, travel agents, and booking websites. It appears on boarding passes, baggage tags, and flight information displays. Knowing the IATA code is especially helpful for international travelers who may not be familiar with Italian airport names, as it provides a universal way to identify Palermo Airport in travel documents and systems.
Airlines and Flight Operations
Palermo Airport (PMO) connects Sicily with many parts of Europe and beyond through a mix of full-service and low-cost carriers. Travelers have options for both regular and seasonal flights, with direct routes to dozens of cities.
Major Airlines Serving PMO
Several well-known airlines operate at PMO. Ryanair and easyJet are the two main low-cost carriers, offering frequent flights across Europe. Alitalia (now part of ITA Airways) has been a staple for flights within Italy.
Passengers can also fly with airlines such as Lufthansa, Vueling, Volotea, and Brussels Airlines. Legacy carriers like Austrian Airlines, LOT Polish Airlines, and Air One provide more options, especially for connections to central and eastern Europe.
Charter operators and smaller airlines, such as Tunisair, Meridiana (now operating as Air Italy), and the now-defunct XL Airways France, have also served Palermo. These airlines offer a range of direct and connecting services, making Palermo accessible for a wide variety of travelers. For up-to-date lists, passengers can check the Palermo Airport official site.
Destinations and Routes
From Palermo, passengers can fly non-stop to many major European and Mediterranean cities. There are direct routes to cities in Italy, Germany, France, Spain, Austria, Belgium, Poland, and Tunisia.
Popular Destinations Table:
| Country | Cities Served | Airlines |
|---|---|---|
| Italy | Rome, Milan, Turin, Venice | ITA Airways, Ryanair |
| Germany | Berlin, Frankfurt, Munich | Lufthansa, Ryanair |
| France | Paris, Lyon | Vueling, Volotea |
| Spain | Barcelona, Madrid, Valencia | Vueling, Ryanair |
| Austria | Vienna | Austrian Airlines |
| Belgium | Brussels | Brussels Airlines |
| Poland | Warsaw | LOT Polish Airlines |
| Tunisia | Tunis | Tunisair |
Flights often focus on cities with strong business, tourist, and family connections. In total, travelers can reach 11 German airports non-stop from Palermo.
Seasonal and Charter Flights
During summer and holiday periods, PMO sees an increase in charter and seasonal flights. These flights target popular vacation destinations, often operated by airlines like Volotea, Vueling, and charter subsidiaries of larger carriers.
Seasonal services commonly link Palermo with northern European cities, beach resorts, and smaller Italian or Mediterranean airports not served year-round. These routes are especially popular with tourists visiting Sicily in the warmer months.
Charter operations also include special holiday flights to places like Greece, the Canary Islands, and North Africa. Airlines adjust schedules and destinations each year based on demand. For the latest charter and seasonal route information, travelers can check the Palermo Airport destinations page.
Passenger Services and Facilities
Palermo Airport (PMO) offers a variety of services and amenities to ensure passengers have a smooth and convenient experience while at the airport. Facilities are well-suited for families, business travelers, and tourists.
Terminal Amenities
The passenger terminal is designed for comfort and ease of use. Travelers will find waiting areas with seating close to departure gates as well as charging stations for phones and laptops. Free Wi-Fi is available throughout the terminal.
Dining options include cafes, snack bars, and restaurants that serve Italian and international food. For shopping, there are duty-free stores and shops selling local products, fashion, and travel essentials. Those who need assistance can visit the ticket office for flight bookings, ticket changes, and upgrades, and there is also a pharmacy available for last-minute health needs.
The airport features a VIP lounge that offers snacks, drinks, Wi-Fi, newspapers, and a comfortable place to relax. Smoking is not allowed in the VIP lounge. For added security, luggage wrapping services are provided in the terminal. More details on these facilities can be found on the Palermo Airport facilities page.
Ground Transportation Options
Several ground transportation choices are available for getting to and from the airport. Car rental agencies are located inside the terminal, allowing travelers to book vehicles for exploring Sicily.
The airport has a dedicated parking area for short-term and long-term stays. Taxi stands are situated outside the arrivals area, offering direct travel to destinations in Palermo and nearby cities. There are also car sharing services available at the terminal.
While there is usually an airport shuttle service, it may sometimes be temporarily suspended. It is best to check the official Palermo Airport services page for the most up-to-date information. Private transfer and ride-hailing services also operate at the airport.
Tourist Information Services
A tourist information desk is available in the arrival area. Staff can help with maps, hotel reservations, and directions to main attractions in Palermo and Sicily. They can also give tips on local tours, public transport, and events.
Visitors will find brochures and pamphlets covering sights, museums, dining, and shopping in the region. Some staff speak multiple languages to assist international travelers. If you need more help, or want to book organized tours, information is available at the airport services center.
These services help passengers make the most of their visit as soon as they land.
Local Attractions
Palermo Cathedral
Architectural fusion of styles reflecting the city’s multicultural history.
Teatro Massimo
Italy’s largest opera house, known for its grandeur and acoustic excellence.
Monreale Cathedral
Famed for its gold Byzantine mosaics and hilltop views of Palermo.
Capuchin Catacombs
Historical burial site with preserved mummies dating back centuries.
Mondello Beach
Popular seaside district offering turquoise waters and Sicilian seafood.
Travel Tips
Palermo Airport has a single terminal with restaurants, shops, and rental car desks.
Consider using the train from the airport to Palermo Centrale for quick access to the city.
Summer is peak travel season—book flights and accommodations early.
Car rentals are recommended for exploring Sicily’s inland towns and coastal drives.
Frequently Asked Questions
Palermo Airport offers a range of airline choices, facilities, and services that help travelers with domestic and international travel. It is located outside the city and has transport links to and from Palermo.
How can I access international flights at Palermo Airport?
International flights are available from the main terminal at Palermo Airport. Passengers should follow airport signs to the check-in and security areas for departures.
What are the available facilities at Palermo Airport?
Travelers will find restaurants, shops, car rental agencies, and ATMs in the main terminal. For those needing assistance, there are help desks and facilities for people with disabilities.
What airlines operate out of Palermo Airport?
Major airlines such as ITA Airways, Ryanair, easyJet, and Volotea run flights from Palermo Airport. The airport serves both regional and international routes.
How can I find the status of departures from Palermo Airport?
The airport offers departure information on monitors throughout the terminals. Travelers can also check flight status online through the airport’s official website or use travel apps for real-time updates.
What are the transportation options to and from Palermo Airport?
There are multiple options, including shuttle buses, taxis, trains, and rental cars. The airport is located outside Palermo but is accessible through these transport services. More information can be found in a Palermo Airport guide.
Are there any lounges available at Palermo Airport?
Palermo Airport provides at least one airport lounge for travelers seeking a comfortable place to relax before their flight. Access may depend on the airline, class of ticket, or lounge membership. More details are listed in the Palermo Airport lounge section.
