Athens International Airport is set to close 2025 with a record 34 million passengers, as major expansion works move into their execution phase to support future traffic growth. Photo source: AIA
Athens International Airport (AIA) is on track to close 2025 with a new passenger traffic record of 34 million travelers, highlighting the sustained strength of air travel demand and accelerating plans for a major expansion of Greece’s busiest airport.
Speaking at a media briefing on Monday, outgoing AIA Chief Executive Officer Yiannis Paraschis said passenger numbers are set to rise significantly from 31.9 million in 2024, reflecting not only strong inbound tourism but also increased outbound travel by Greeks following the pandemic years.
“2025 is shaping up to be a very good year for Athens airport, as we are set to reach 34 million passengers,” Paraschis said, noting that the airport’s performance has exceeded European averages in the post-pandemic period.
Expansion plans move into execution phase
Rising traffic levels are now pushing long-planned expansion works into an execution phase. Athens International Airport is advancing a 1 billion euros terminal expansion project, with the contractor for the core works expected to be selected within the coming months.
Outgoing Athens International Airport CEO Yiannis Paraschis addresses guests, flanked by AIA Director of Communications and Marketing Ioanna Papadopoulou (left) and incoming CEO Giorgos Kallimasias (right), as the airport reports record passenger traffic and advances its expansion plans. Photo © Greek Travel Pages (GTP)
The broader investment program, valued at 1.28 billion euros, aims to gradually increase the airport’s capacity to 40 million passengers by 2032. Works will be delivered in stages to minimize disruption, with individual facilities coming online as they are completed.
As part of the expansion, construction of a multi-storey aircraft parking facility with capacity for up to 32 aircraft has already been awarded and is progressing according to schedule.
According to the airport’s management, some inconvenience for passengers during construction is unavoidable. However, the final outcome is expected to deliver a significantly upgraded terminal environment and improved operational efficiency.
“At the end of this process, what will be delivered is essentially a new airport,” said George Kallimasias, who assumes the role of chief executive on February 1.
Management transition as expansion accelerates
Incoming Athens International Airport CEO Giorgos Kallimasias speaks as AIA Director of Communications and Marketing Ioanna Papadopoulou looks on, outlining the next phase of the airport’s expansion following a record year for passenger traffic. Photo © Greek Travel Pages (GTP)
The expansion coincides with a change at the top of the airport’s management, with Kallimasias succeeding Paraschis after a long period of close collaboration.
Paraschis described the leadership transition as a natural continuation, noting that the two executives have worked together for 25 years across key milestones, including the extension of the airport’s concession period, long-term strategic planning, and the company’s stock market listing.
“One chapter is closing and a new one is opening,” Paraschis said, adding that the airport’s philosophy has consistently been to “speak honestly and deliver through action”.
Kallimasias, who has been with the airport since 1999, said he is taking over an organization operating at a high level of operational, financial and environmental performance, but at a moment of heightened challenge.
“The most critical task ahead is delivering the expansion while maintaining service quality,” he said, acknowledging that managing growth during construction will be a defining test for the coming years.
Paraschis will remain involved with the airport in a consultative role, ensuring continuity as Athens International Airport enters its next growth phase.
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