Naples is southern Italy’s most busy and renowned city, offering direct access to such in-demand markets as the Amalfi Coast, Pompeii, and the Isle of Capri. The city attracts tourists year-round and, while an important destination, its airport facilities present unique operating challenges for private jet pilots, especially regarding parking and handling.
This article provides essential trip support tips when arriving at Naples International Airport (LIRN), the increasing benefits of alternative Salerno Costa d’Amalfi Airport (LIRI), and flight tips for private jet crews with flights to these busy Italian entry points.
Why Naples? The private jet magnet
Naples International Airport (LIRN) is the main aviation entry point to the Campania region, Capri, and Sorrento. It has limited private aviation facilities but is still the arrival point of choice for most due to its convenient proximity, particularly for clients who choose a fast transfer to private yacht charters to Capri.
For private jet pilots, however, arrival at LIRN involves strategic planning due to slot restrictions, limited ramp accommodations, and restricted parking.
Major trip support issues at Naples International Airport (LIRN)
1. Strict operating hours
Naples International operates from 04:00z to 21:00z, with no extension other than for certified medical or military flights. This closing restricts flexibility for late night arrivals or unscheduled diversions.
2. No overnight parking and limited ramp space
LIRN does not have an overnight parking capacity for private aircraft. The ground time is a maximum of three hours, and there can be no extensions under regular operations. Therefore, positioning flights or one-hour turnarounds have to be planned accurately.
3. Slot constraints and PPR
Prior Permission Required (PPR) is required at Naples. Slot availability is very dependent on commercial airline traffic, particularly at peak times of the year. Requests can only be accepted 15 days in advance, so short-notice requests should expect delay or denial due to a lack of available stands.
In order to place a request, the following details are needed:
- Aircraft details (MTOW, registration)
- Operator billing details
- Complete flight schedule (ETA, ETD, passenger information, origin/destination)
4. Handling and fuel
Fuel is provided by two suppliers at LIRN. Prior arrangements with the chosen fuel supplier must be made, especially considering the lack of apron space and commercial operators usually take precedence.
5. Customs and Immigration (CIQ)
CIQ works in accordance with airport operating hours and does not provide after-hour service. Although generally efficient, it is clogged during peak festive periods, further diminishing ground handling efficiency.
Salerno Costa d’Amalfi Airport (LIRI): A suitable alternative
Due to the limitations at Naples, Salerno (LIRI) is being increasingly promote as a more flexible alternative for private jet pilots flying in southern Italy. Situated approximately 70 kilometers southeast of Naples, Salerno is less congested, offers more spacious parking, and has simpler procedures for business aviation.
1. Flexible ground time
In contrast to Naples, LIRI allows for up to 48 hours of ground time, if stands are available. Overnight parking is therefore permitted, perfect for positioning flights or short-stay charters without having to relocate the aircraft.
2. Streamlined PPR process
PPR is still needed at Salerno but is less competitive. Regarding LIRN, you can request 15 days before the operation. Slots are easier to obtain because of less airline traffic.
3. No Hangars, but more ramp space
While LIRI does not have a hangar capacity, the apron offers more availability for private planes. This is a reliable option for crews who prefer not to engage in last-minute repositioning due to parking refusal.
4. CIQ and fuel availability
Fueling can be accomplished with WFS card or Sky Services accounts. Due to the light traffic, delays are uncommon, with most fueling procedures lasting between 15-20 minutes.
CIQ is available during airport hours (06:00-24:00 LT), which equates to operational hours. This is ideal for charter flights with passengers vacationing on the Amalfi Coast.
Regulatory and health considerations
Italy has no COVID-specific entry requirements, but flights arriving from risk nations – particularly countries with exposure to Zika, Dengue, or Yellow Fever – must adhere to rigorous disinfection procedures.
Disinfection specifications (Both for LIRN and LIRI)
Operators must:
- Submit a self-declaration on company letterhead confirming aircraft status regarding risk area exposure.
- Present a valid Residual Disinfection Certificate dated not more than eight weeks prior to arrival.
- In case no certificate is on board, the operator has to organize disinfection services – only accessible at big airports like Linate and Malpensa – well in advance.
- Non-compliance will lead to compulsory disinfection on arrival, which can lead to aircraft delay and passenger clearance.
See: CDC Dengue Risk Map for the most up-to-date country risk levels.
Trip support tips for private jet pilots flying into Salerno and Naples
For seamless functioning to LIRN or LIRI, the following should be taken into account:
1. Plan ahead for parking: File PPR and slot requests precisely 15 days in advance. There is no leeway to file earlier per current procedures.
2. Confirm ramp space in writing: Obtain written confirmation of stand availability, particularly if you’re requesting an overnight or long ground time in Salerno.
3. Pre-coordinate fuel services: When flying into LIRN or LIRI, notify fuel providers at least 24 hours in advance. Possess a valid WFS card or ensure clearance through your ground handling account.
4. Ensure compliance with health protocols: Keep residual disinfection certificates current and accessible. Submitting required health declarations 48 hours prior to arrival is advised to avoid ground delays.
5. Manage client expectations: If travelers are determined about flying into Naples for proximity to Capri, inform them of limited ground time and possible rerouting. Consider positioning the aircraft at Salerno while spending time there.
6. Utilize a specialized trip support provider: Trip support personnel who are knowledgeable about the local environment can foresee and resolve slot problems, coordinate CIQ, and coordinate logistics with a local handler, especially crucial during peak-traffic seasons.
Final thoughts: Fly smart in southern Italy
For private jet pilots, flights into Naples require proactive trip planning. With limited ramp space and no overnight stays allowed, LIRN can be particularly challenging for flight departments managing complex itineraries or demanding schedules.
Salerno, although farther from Naples itself, is a less hectic alternative with overnight parking, faster fuel turnaround, and more ramp flexibility, making it a solid second choice for business aviation operations in the area.
As ever, the secret to successful private international flights by jet lies in careful planning and real-time coordination with your trip support company. For Naples and Salerno, it’s not the arriving that’s the problem, it’s where your aircraft will wait, and how fast you can reposition if the apron is a no. Icarus Jet is here to help in your next trip to Italy.
FAQs
Is overnight parking allowed at Naples International Airport (LIRN)?
No. Overnight parking is not allowed. There is a maximum of three hours ground time with no exceptions.
Is Salerno Airport (LIRI) a suitable alternative for Naples, Italy?
Yes. LIRI provides a maximum of 48 hours on the ground depending on availability and is less congested than LIRQ, making it a more flexible option.
How many days prior can I start applying for slots or PPR at LIRN and LIRI?
Both airport applications must be filed no sooner than 15 days prior to the date of the flight, as per airport policy.
Is fuel easily accessible at both airports?
Yes. Both LIRN and LIRI have fuel, but prior coordination is recommended to prevent delays, particularly at Naples.
Are there any aircraft biosecurity or health requirements for incoming aircraft in Italy?
Yes. Flights arriving from regions of known mosquito-borne virus transmission – Dengue or Zika, for instance – must submit an advance self-declaration and hold a valid Residual Disinfection Certificate issued within eight weeks of arrival. Operators are requested to comply 48 hours before arrival to avoid on-ground delays.
