Athens, Greece – Athens International Airport (AIA) is charting an ambitious course for growth, focusing on expanding its air connectivity and tapping into new tourist markets. This strategy, highlighted during the 3rd Reimagine Tourism Conference, underscores the airport’s pivotal role in bolstering the Greek economy and fostering societal well-being.
Connecting with the World: Developing New Tourist Markets
During a panel discussion titled “Connecting with the World: How we develop new tourist markets from India to Latin America” at the 3rd Reimagine Tourism Conference, Ioanna Papadopoulou, Director of Comms and Marketing for AIA, alongside George Vilos, Executive Director, Commercial & Business Development for Fraport Greece, and Marina Valvi, Corporate Affairs & Communications Director for Aegean Airlines, discussed the robust momentum for developing new markets for Athens and Greece. The discussion, moderated by journalist Apostolos Mangiriadis, emphasized the tangible benefits of enhanced air connectivity.
Significant Growth in US and Chinese Connectivity
Athens has already witnessed remarkable growth in its long-haul connectivity. The number of weekly departures to the US has surged from 46 to 103, expanding to 9 destinations in 2025 from just 4 in 2019 during the peak summer period. Similarly, connectivity to the Chinese market has seen a substantial increase, growing from 3 weekly frequencies and 1 destination in 2019 to 12 weekly frequencies and 3 destinations in 2025.
2026: The Year of India for Athens
A major focus for AIA is the Indian market, which has been a subject of intensive development efforts. 2026 is poised to be ‘The Year of India’ for Athens, with exciting developments already announced. IndiGo is set to inaugurate flights to Delhi and Mumbai starting January 2026, while Aegean Airlines will commence operations in March of the same year. Jointly, these airlines will offer 14 weekly frequencies to 2 destinations in the Indian market, marking a significant milestone for Athens’ global reach.
The True Value of Air Connectivity: Economic and Social Impacts
Beyond the impressive route developments, the panel highlighted the profound value of air connectivity. A recent study by ACI Europe, “BENEFITS OF AIRPORTS & AIR CONNECTIVITY,” underscores these impacts: a 10% increase in direct air connectivity is associated with a 0.5% increase in European GDP per capita and a 1.6% rise in employment. Furthermore, the study indicates that such an increase leads to a 14% reduction in poverty, a 9% rise in higher education opportunities, a 19% improvement in gender equality, an 8.5% boost in Research & Development, and an overall 1.2% increase in life satisfaction. Given that Athens International Airport increased its air connectivity by 33% in 2025 compared to 2019 (ACI Europe Air Connectivity report 2025), these positive impacts are expected to be amplified for the Greek economy and society.
AIA’s Impact on the Greek Economy
According to a 2024 study by the Foundation for Economic and Industrial Research in Greece, Athens International Airport contributes significantly to the Greek economy, accounting for 3.8% of the national GDP and 4.2% of total employment. The tourism sector as a whole plays an even larger role, contributing a double-digit percentage to the Greek GDP.
These figures strongly support the sentiment expressed during the conference: “Air-Connectivity Makes People Happy!” The ongoing expansion of air routes and the strategic development of new markets by Athens International Airport are not only strengthening the city’s position as a global hub but also delivering substantial economic and social benefits across Greece.
Source: https://www.routesonline.com/airports/2360/athens-international-airport-sa-eleftherios-venizelos/news/299665552/how-athens-develops-new-markets/
