Originally the airport was located closer to Kavala, where it was operated from 1952. In 1981, the airport was moved to its current location, enabling better service to the nearby island of thasos and the city of Xanthi, as well as continued service to the cities of Kavala and Drama. The airport was initially named Kavala National Airport, indicating a clear message to the extent of services. In December 1987 the airport was renamed Kavala International Airport and in January 1992 again renamed to Kavala International Airport - Megas Alexandros. In December 2015, the airport was privatized, to be operated by a joint venture between Fraport and Copelouzos Group. The airport mainly serves holiday airlines on seasonal services.