Athens, Greece – December 23, 2025 – Athens International Airport (AIA) is projected to conclude 2025 with an unprecedented 34 million passengers, marking a substantial increase from the 31.9 million recorded in 2024. This notable surge in passenger traffic underscores both Greece’s robust recovery following the pandemic and a significant rise in travel among Greek citizens, as announced by airport executives during a Christmas press event on Monday.
Leadership Transition and Continued Growth
The announcement highlighted a pivotal leadership transition, with outgoing CEO Yiannis Paraschis preparing to hand over the reins to his successor, Giorgos Kallimasias, effective February 1, 2026. Ioanna Papadopoulou, AIA Director of Communications and Marketing, also emphasized the airport’s sustained growth, aligning with Greece’s broader tourism resurgence.
“2025 was a very good year for Athens Airport,” stated Paraschis, attributing this positive momentum to Greece’s favorable trajectory post-pandemic and the enhanced mobility of its citizens. He further noted that the airport is embarking on a new phase characterized by a substantial investment program. The selection of Kallimasias, an internal candidate, signifies confidence in the existing leadership team and the achievements realized over the past three decades.
Paraschis confirmed his intention to remain in an advisory capacity as the new CEO assumes his duties. “We are contributing a small stone to the country’s endeavor to distinguish itself as a worldwide tourist destination and to establish Athens as a pioneering and sustainable destination,” he remarked.
Major Expansion Plans on the Horizon
Giorgos Kallimasias, who joined the company in 1999 and has worked alongside Paraschis since 2005, acknowledged that he is taking charge of a high-performing organization that nonetheless faces considerable challenges. The most immediate concern involves the expansion of airport facilities. The contract for a new parking area has already been awarded, and the comprehensive 1 billion euro central terminal expansion is slated for completion by 2032, with individual components being delivered progressively throughout the construction period.
Kallimasias conceded that the construction phase would inevitably cause some inconvenience for passengers. However, he assured that the ultimate outcome would be a fully modernized and operationally advanced airport. “And this is perhaps the most important challenge for the coming years,” he added.
Greece’s Tourism Rebound and Future Outlook
The anticipated record passenger numbers at Athens International Airport serve as a strong indicator of Greece’s successful efforts in revitalizing its tourism sector. The increased air traffic and investment in infrastructure are expected to further solidify Athens’ position as a key gateway and a leading tourist destination in the region.
The airport’s growth is also supported by broader trends, including an increase in air seats to Greece this winter, test flights at the new Iraklio airport, and the emergence of India as a significant market for Greek tourism. These factors collectively contribute to a positive outlook for the Greek tourism and transport sectors.
The commitment to a sustainable and pioneering destination, as articulated by the outgoing CEO, reflects a strategic vision for long-term growth and development, aiming to balance increased tourism with environmental and social considerations.
