Athens, February 12 – Athens International Airport (AIA) is making significant strides in a comprehensive redesign of its terminal airspace, a key component of the EU-backed ATHENIAN (ATHENs termInal Area redesign & pbN) project. This ambitious five-year initiative is set to enhance operational efficiency and substantially reduce the environmental impact of flights operating in and out of the Greek capital.
ATHENIAN Project: A Leap Towards Modern Air Traffic Management
The ATHENIAN project, which commenced in January 2023, is centered on two primary objectives: a complete restructuring of Athens’ Terminal Maneuvering Area (TMA) and the implementation of advanced Performance-Based Navigation (PBN) procedures for both arriving and departing aircraft. This overhaul is critical for modernizing air traffic management in the region and ensuring alignment with broader European aviation reforms under the Single European Sky framework.
The project’s phased approach demonstrates a meticulous plan for implementation. The initial phase, successfully concluded in January 2024, involved detailed topographical mapping and the development of PBN procedures within the existing airspace. Building on this foundation, the second phase, which began in April 2024, is dedicated to a full redesign of the Athens TMA and the creation of entirely new operational procedures. A significant milestone was achieved in February 2025 with the delivery of the Concept of Operations (ConOps), providing a robust framework for the redesigned airspace.
Enhanced Efficiency and Environmental Benefits
The introduction of these new PBN procedures is anticipated to bring about a marked improvement in air traffic efficiency. By reducing the reliance on traditional radio communications and aircraft vectoring, the system will enable more predictable and streamlined flight paths. This innovation is expected to result in smoother traffic flows and a reduction in fuel consumption, directly contributing to lower aviation-related emissions.
Key participants in the ATHENIAN project include the Hellenic Civil Aviation Authority (HCAA), Athens International Airport, AEGEAN, SKY express, and EUROCONTROL. Their collaborative efforts underscore a shared commitment to sustainable aviation and operational excellence.
EU Co-Financing and Broader European Integration
The ATHENIAN project receives co-financing from the European Union under the SESAR program, a cornerstone initiative supporting the modernization of air traffic management across Europe. By integrating advanced navigation standards and fostering improved coordination among vital aviation stakeholders, the project is poised to strengthen Athens’ strategic position within the European air traffic network. This will not only yield significant operational and environmental benefits for Greece but also contribute to the overall efficiency and sustainability of European aviation.
The gradual completion of the project is scheduled for the end of 2027, promising a new era of air travel efficiency and environmental responsibility for Athens International Airport and the wider Greek aviation sector.
Source: https://news.gtp.gr/2026/02/12/athens-moves-forward-with-airspace-redesign-under-eu-backed-athenian-project/
