Published on
December 28, 2025
The blue skies over the Aegean have never been busier. In a year defined by unprecedented global travel demand, Greece has officially redefined its ceiling. According to the latest data from the Hellenic Civil Aviation Authority (HCAA) and industry leaders, air traffic across the country’s 39 commercial airports reached a staggering 81 million travelers in 2025.
This milestone isn’t just a number—it represents a massive 9.5% increase compared to 2024. From the bustling gates of Athens to the sun-drenched runways of the regional islands, Greece has solidified its position as one of the most resilient and sought-after destinations in the post-pandemic era.+1
The Powerhouse: Athens International Airport (AIA)
At the heart of this surge is Athens International Airport (AIA), also known as “Eleftherios Venizelos.” As the primary gateway to the country, Athens led the charge by welcoming an estimated 34 million passengers by the end of 2025.
Between January and November alone, AIA recorded 31.68 million travelers, marking a 6.6% year-on-year increase. The growth was primarily fueled by international traffic, which jumped by 8.5%. This performance cements Athens as a critical strategic hub for Southeast Europe, successfully attracting not just holidaymakers, but also a growing number of business travelers and “digital nomads.”
Regional Stars: Beyond the Capital
While Athens took the lion’s share, the regional airports played a vital role in reaching the 81-million mark. Several state-run and Fraport-managed airports reported historical highs:
- Crete (Heraklion & Chania): Heraklion’s “Nikos Kazantzakis” airport achieved a historic record in October, surpassing its full-year 2024 total two months early. Combined, Crete handled millions of visitors, reinforcing its status as a tourism titan.
- Thessaloniki: Greece’s second-largest city saw a double-digit rise in international arrivals (+10.5%), highlighting its expanding appeal as a city-break destination.
- The Ionian Islands: Airports in Corfu and Zakynthos posted steady gains, with Corfu exceeding 2 million arrivals.
- Emerging Leaders: Smaller state-run airports saw the highest percentage growth. Nea Anchialos saw a massive 46.3% increase, while Syros (+39.6%) and Naxos (+17.8%) showed that travelers are increasingly looking for “authentic” and off-the-beaten-path experiences.
The Shift: Extending the Season
One of the most encouraging takeaways from the 2025 data is the “extension of the season.” Historically, Greek tourism would wind down by late September. However, October 2025 saw passenger traffic exceed 8 million—a significant jump from the previous year.
This shift toward the “shoulder season” is a strategic win for the Greek Ministry of Tourism. By spreading the visitor flow into the autumn months, the country is managing the pressures of overtourism while providing a much-needed economic boost to local businesses outside the peak summer months.
Economic Impact: Revenue Reaches New Peaks
This record-breaking traffic has translated into a financial windfall. In the first ten months of 2025, travel receipts reached a record €22.38 billion. Visitors aren’t just coming in greater numbers; they are staying longer and spending more. The average expenditure per trip has risen, signaling that Greece’s move toward “quality tourism” and luxury experiences is paying off.
The Challenges of Success: Capacity and Infrastructure
With 81 million travelers passing through, the strain on infrastructure is becoming apparent. Yiannis Paraschis, CEO of Athens International Airport and president of the Greek Tourism Confederation (SETE), has emphasized that managing this volume requires continuous investment.
Many airports are now operating at full capacity. To sustain this growth into 2026, the government is prioritizing:
Digitalization: Streamlining airport services to reduce wait times.
Sustainability: Implementing “green” practices to ensure tourism doesn’t damage the natural beauty visitors come to see.
Regional Support: Upgrading 22 state-run airports to handle higher volumes safely and efficiently.
Humanizing the Milestone: A Global Invitation
Behind the 81 million flights are 81 million stories. It’s the family from the UK seeing the Acropolis for the first time; the German hiker exploring the Samaria Gorge; and the Greek expatriate returning home for the holidays.
Greece has managed to keep its “eternal summer” spirit alive while modernizing its approach to the world. As the country looks toward 2026, the focus remains on welcoming the world with open arms—and ensuring the infrastructure is ready to meet them.
