Record investments totaling 1.3 billion euros
Maintaining a steady upward trajectory despite ongoing uncertainty in the Middle East, Athens International Airport is reaffirming its role as one of the most resilient and fastest-growing aviation hubs in Europe, entering a phase of large-scale investment expansion.
Athens International Airport Eleftherios Venizelos continues to demonstrate strong momentum in 2026, building on a landmark year. In 2025, it recorded historic highs in both passenger traffic and connectivity, further strengthening Athens’ position on the European aviation map. Overall, the airport served 164 destinations across 55 countries through 70 airlines—an all-time record—reflecting both robust tourism demand for Athens and targeted partnerships with carriers to develop new routes.
At the same time, Athens achieved a remarkable rise in global connectivity rankings, climbing to 2nd place in 2025 from 21st place in 2019, firmly establishing its position among Europe’s leading airports.
According to its CEO, the key objective is to continuously enhance the airport’s value by expanding its network and attracting new markets. In this context, the expansion program is progressing rapidly, aiming to increase capacity to 40 million passengers annually by 2032. The strategy extends beyond capacity growth to include a comprehensive upgrade in service quality.
The total investment program amounts to approximately 1.3 billion euros and will be implemented progressively between 2025 and 2032, with up to 50% of the investments expected to be executed by 2028.
New parking and operational infrastructure
Construction is underway on a new seven-level multi-storey car park with a capacity of 3,365 spaces, as well as a new aircraft parking space in the airport’s northwestern section with 32 stands. These projects are complemented by new taxiways, service stations, and supporting infrastructure, aimed at easing congestion and improving operational efficiency. Completion is scheduled for 2027.
New VIP terminal and enhanced operational resilience
The investment plan also includes the development of a new VIP terminal of approximately 600 sq.m., designed to accommodate heads of state and high-level delegations, upgrading existing facilities.
At the same time, critical capacity enhancement projects were completed in 2025, including new boarding gates, expansion of passport control areas, and additional parking facilities—interventions that proved essential for the smooth operation of the airport, particularly during peak demand periods.
Looking ahead to the next decade, Athens International Airport aims to capitalize on current demand dynamics, transforming them into a sustainable competitive advantage.
