The year 2026 is set to mark a milestone for Athens International Airport (AIA), as the airport embarks on a major 1 billion euros investment program aimed at expanding its facilities.

In the coming months, the company will issue a tender for the expansion of the passenger terminal, with project completion expected by 2032. During construction, new facilities will be delivered in phases to minimize disruption for travelers.

“2025 was an outstanding year for the airport,” said outgoing CEO Giannis Paraschis during a press event on Monday, Dec. 21, noting that around 34 million passengers are expected to pass through its gates. “Following the pandemic, Greece has bounced back strongly, and the airport is benefiting from the renewed ability of Greeks to travel,” he added.

Paraschis highlighted that the AIA is opening a new chapter of investment 30 years after its founding. “One chapter closes, and a new one begins,” he said, emphasizing the company’s focus on transparency and tangible results.

“We’ve faced both easy and challenging times, but the airport has remained a model of best practice, establishing itself as one of the most successful airports internationally,” he added. He also referenced the completion of the airport’s photovoltaic park and recalled that in 2025, AIA was voted among the world’s top airports.

In the immediate future, the tender for the 1 billion euros expansion of both the main and satellite terminals will be announced, noted a company executive, acknowledging that passengers may experience temporary inconvenience during construction.

According to earlier statements by Paraschis, half of the capital expenditures are expected to be invested by the end of 2028, with the remainder completed by 2032.

Through this ambitious project, Athens International Airport continues to demonstrate its strategic growth vision while reaffirming its commitment to supporting Greece’s efforts to position itself as a premier international tourist destination, according to airport management.