Greece Invests In Major Infrastructure Improvements At Kythira, Ioannina, And Syros Airports To Boost Regional Connectivity And Support Year-Round Aviation Growth

Greece has launched a comprehensive modernization campaign at three of its regional state-operated airports—Kythira, Ioannina, and Syros—under the supervision of the Hellenic Civil Aviation Authority (HCAA). Focused on upgrading infrastructure, enhancing passenger services, and improving safety protocols, the initiative includes major works such as terminal refurbishments, runway extensions, upgraded air conditioning systems, firefighting equipment installation, and baggage handling enhancements. These efforts are part of a national strategy to strengthen regional connectivity, support year-round tourism, and ensure that even smaller airports meet international aviation standards.

Greece Fast-Tracks Major Overhaul at Kythira, Ioannina, and Syros Airports Under National Aviation Upgrade Initiative

Greece has launched a wave of infrastructure improvements at three key state-operated regional airports—Kythira, Ioannina, and Syros—as part of an ambitious initiative led by the Hellenic Civil Aviation Authority (HCAA). These efforts fall under the authority’s long-term strategy to modernize airport services, improve safety, and align aviation operations with the needs of both domestic travelers and international tourists.

The current round of works focuses on upgrading passenger services, renewing outdated systems, and reinforcing airport readiness for tourism growth, emergency response, and regional connectivity. The HCAA has confirmed that inspections are being routinely carried out to ensure quality execution and timely delivery of infrastructure goals.

Modernization in Motion at Kythira Airport

On the island of Kythira, the “Alexandros A. Onassis” State Airport is undergoing a transformation that combines practical maintenance with visual improvements. A recent inspection by HCAA officials assessed ongoing progress, with several key enhancements either completed or advancing swiftly.

The main interventions at Kythira Airport include:

• Landscaping and beautification: The airport’s exterior surroundings are being upgraded to create a more welcoming environment for passengers. Green areas and functional outdoor spaces are being enhanced as part of the effort to elevate first impressions.
• Restroom facility renovations: Work is underway to refurbish outdated restroom areas, improving hygiene standards and ensuring accessibility for travelers.
• Maintenance tender for baggage trolleys: A new service tender is being prepared to ensure the reliable upkeep and availability of baggage carts throughout the terminal.
• Roof and panel improvements: Insulation and panel replacements are in progress across the passenger terminal, aimed at improving energy efficiency, climate control, and overall comfort inside the airport building.
• Lighting system maintenance: Lighting pylons and outdoor illumination systems are being repaired and upgraded to ensure better visibility and nighttime safety.
• Firefighting equipment upgrade: The airport’s aging fire truck has been replaced with a newer model, significantly improving emergency response readiness.

These developments reflect the HCAA’s broader objective of bringing consistency and modernity to regional airports while enhancing operational safety and service quality.

Ioannina Airport Expands Its Role in Epirus Region

Located in northwestern Greece, the “King Pyrros” State Airport in Ioannina is being developed not just as a transport hub, but as a strategic driver of regional development. Opened in 2019, the airport has quickly become essential for linking the Epirus region with national and international destinations.

During a recent HCAA visit, both maintenance reviews and forward-looking discussions took place. Among the key priorities identified:

• Route expansion and air connectivity: The airport is aiming to increase its range of destinations, offering more direct connections to boost local tourism and economic growth. New routes would enhance access to Epirus from Europe and beyond.
• Tourism alignment: Authorities are working to better integrate the airport’s operations with regional tourism development strategies. This includes marketing campaigns and infrastructure planning to make the airport a central component of Epirus’ travel offering.
• Support for firefighting aircraft: Ioannina Airport also serves as a base for firefighting aircraft during the summer wildfire season. Plans are underway to expand and improve operational facilities for these emergency services, including hangar space and refueling infrastructure.

The HCAA views Ioannina as a modern aviation hub that can serve multiple roles—commercial, tourism-focused, and emergency-related—within the Greek air transport network.

Syros Airport Achieves Key Upgrades

The “Dimitrios Vikelas” State Airport on the island of Syros is also undergoing significant improvements as part of the HCAA’s ongoing upgrade program. These enhancements are focused on both passenger convenience and technical performance, ensuring that the airport is well-equipped to meet future demand.

Completed and ongoing improvements at Syros Airport include:

• Baggage system modernization: Certification and installation of advanced hand luggage and checked baggage equipment is ensuring faster and more secure handling.
• Terminal air conditioning: New air conditioning units have been installed in both the terminal and departure lounge areas, with further system enhancements planned.
• Runway extension and repainting: The airport’s runway has been extended to allow safer and more versatile aircraft operations. Fresh paint has been applied to all runway and taxiway markings to improve visibility for pilots.
• Runway surface treatment: Rubber buildup from landings has been removed through specialized derubberization procedures, enhancing traction and flight safety.
• Perimeter fence repair: Improvements to the airport’s perimeter fencing are reinforcing security and compliance with international safety standards.

Additional upgrades are also progressing:

• Restroom modernization: Upgrades to public restrooms are improving sanitation and traveler comfort.
• Expanded air conditioning in all halls: Enhanced climate control has been introduced in both the arrival and departure areas, making the airport environment more comfortable during peak summer months.
• Café operation contract: A new contract has been signed to re-launch the airport café, improving food and beverage services for passengers waiting for flights.
• Fire pump system installation: A new firefighting pump has been procured and is being installed, further bolstering the airport’s emergency response capacity.

High-Level Oversight and Commitment

The ongoing improvements across all three airports are being closely supervised by George Saounatsos, Governor of the Hellenic Civil Aviation Authority, and Alexandros Karidis, Deputy Governor for Airport Management. Their presence during inspections reflects the authority’s hands-on commitment to transparency, accountability, and timely delivery of all infrastructure upgrades.

Elevating Regional Air Travel Across Greece

The HCAA’s modernization push at Kythira, Ioannina, and Syros airports marks a significant step in enhancing regional air transport infrastructure across Greece. By focusing on safety, service quality, and operational efficiency, these efforts are designed to support the country’s growing tourism sector, expand domestic air travel capacity, and improve the passenger experience at every level.

Greece is advancing major infrastructure upgrades at Kythira, Ioannina, and Syros airports to modernize regional aviation and improve passenger experience. The nationwide initiative, led by the Hellenic Civil Aviation Authority, aims to enhance safety, expand connectivity, and support tourism growth across key island and mainland hubs.

As air traffic rebounds and regional destinations gain popularity, such upgrades will ensure that even smaller state-run airports are equipped to handle increased demand with world-class standards.

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