The 2026 Venice Carnival period will take place from January 31 through February 17, 2026, on and around the island of Venice. As one of Europe’s most iconic cultural celebrations, the event draws large international crowds and a notable increase in general aviation arrivals and departures at Venice-area airports. The 2026 Carnival theme is “Olympus – The Origins of the Game,” inspired by the Olympic spirit ahead of the Milan–Cortina 2026 Winter Olympics, which is expected to contribute to elevated travel demand in Italy throughout the winter season.

Business aviation operators should expect strong GA movement, particularly during the opening weekend and lead-up to Martedì Grasso (February 17, 2026), and should plan PPR approvals, parking, and support services accordingly.

The following is an overview of what you need to know:

Preferred Airport – Venice Marco Polo (LIPZ)

Venice Marco Polo Airport (LIPZ) is the primary airport for business aviation operations related to the Venice Carnival. LIPZ operates 24/7 as an Airport of Entry (AOE) and provides full general aviation support services.

Key Operational Notes

• No airport slots are required

• Prior Permission Required (PPR) is mandatory

• Recommended PPR lead time: 24–48 hours

• PPR approval governs parking availability and length of stay

• General Aviation Terminal (GAT) open daily 0600–2200 local

• Overtime available upon request

• Airport Collaborative Decision Making (ACDM) procedures are fully implemented and enforced

While slots are not required, parking availability remains the primary constraint during the Carnival period, particularly for extended stays.

Parking Considerations

GA parking at LIPZ is typically manageable but may become constrained during peak Carnival days. In recent years, increased GA traffic has generally been accommodated; however, early coordination remains essential.

Parking for large-cabin aircraft (e.g., G650, ACJ, BBJ) is more limited due to a small number of suitable stands. In some cases, parking on the commercial apron may be approved at the discretion of the airport authority.

Operators are advised to minimize schedule changes after PPR approval and coordinate closely with ground handlers throughout the stay.

Our Venice Destination Guide has more information.

Alternate Airports

If parking or PPR approval cannot be secured at LIPZ, the following alternates are recommended:

• Treviso (LIPH)
  24-hour AOE with GA access, parking, fuel, and handling services. PPR required.

• Trieste (LIPQ)
  24-hour AOE with GA parking and fuel available. PPR required.

• Milan Linate (LIML)
  Suitable for larger aircraft requiring extended parking, with longer ground transfer times.

Approximate drive times to Venice:

• LIPH: ~30 minutes

• LIPQ: ~60–90 minutes

• LIML: ~2.5 hours

CIQ Clearance

Customs, immigration, and quarantine (CIQ) clearance at LIPZ is conducted through the General Aviation Terminal (GAT) during standard operating hours (0600–2200 local daily) or when GAT overtime has been arranged in advance. CIQ processing at the GAT is typically efficient and averages approximately 10 minutes.

For arrivals or departures outside GAT operating hours without confirmed overtime, CIQ clearance will be completed in the main terminal, with ground handlers escorting crew and passengers through the process.

No prior notice is required for CIQ clearance at LIPZ or Milan Linate (LIML). However, 24 hours’ advance notice is recommended for CIQ arrangements at Treviso (LIPH) and Trieste (LIPQ).

Fuel and Services

Fuel services at LIPZ are generally reliable, though delays may occur during high-traffic periods. Private non-revenue flights may uplift fuel within four hours of departure, while charter operations may uplift fuel upon arrival or at any time prior to departure. Operators should anticipate longer fuel service timelines during peak arrival and departure windows.

Advance fuel coordination is recommended during peak Carnival dates.

Hotels and Ground Transport

Hotel availability in Venice becomes limited during the Carnival period, with higher-end properties often selling out early. Crew accommodation rates typically range from:

• USD 300–450/night on Venice Island

• USD 200/night on the mainland

Ground transportation options include pre-arranged chauffeured vehicles, taxis, rideshare services, and water taxis, which experience heavy demand throughout the event.

Compliance Reminders

• Pets: Original health and vaccination certificates are required on arrival, including rabies and parasite treatment. Missing documentation can result in CIQ delays.

• Prohibited Items: Vapes and e-cigarettes are strictly prohibited in Italy. Possession alone can result in severe penalties.

Key Planning Recommendations

• No airport slots required, but PPR is mandatory

• Submit PPR requests as early as possible

• Anticipate parking constraints during peak Carnival dates

• Plan alternates in advance, especially for large-cabin aircraft

• Arrange CIQ overtime if operating outside GAT hours

• Book hotels and ground transportation well in advance

• Factor Olympic-year travel demand into February planning

Bottom Line

The 2026 Venice Carnival will drive increased general aviation activity during an already busy winter travel season in Italy. While operations at LIPZ remain straightforward, early coordination for parking, PPR approval, CIQ arrangements, and crew logistics is essential. With proper planning, business aviation operators can operate smoothly while taking advantage of one of Europe’s most iconic winter events.