Since its establishment in 1996, sustainable operation and development, particularly environmental responsibility, have been key pillars of Athens International Airport's (AIA) business and operational strategy. AIA has long recognised that a major challenge for the sustainable future of airports and air transport is addressing the industry's impact on the climate.
In 2009, AIA was among the first airports to become certified under ACI EUROPE's newly launched Airport Carbon Accreditation (ACA) program for carbon management. Through a series of major infrastructure investments and numerous operational interventions, AIA managed to reduce its carbon footprint by nearly 60% between 2005 and 2024.
In 2016, AIA advanced its ACA certification to Level 3+ by achieving carbon neutrality. Despite this significant achievement - Athens Airport remains the only carbon neutral airport in Greece - it became clear that the climate crisis required more ambitious action, specifically the achievement of net zero carbon.
In June 2019, a large group of European airports co-signed a declaration committing to net zero carbon by 2050. This commitment was reinforced for the entire air transport sector following the International Civil Aviation Organization (ICAO) General Assembly in October 2022.
Taking a bold step, in 2019 AIA announced its plan to achieve net zero carbon by 2025, well ahead of the 2050 target. It is worth noting that AIA has remained committed to this goal despite the challenges posed by the COVID-19 pandemic.
In April 2023, AIA inaugurated Greece's largest self-production photovoltaic power plant, with a capacity of 16 MWp. This facility now produces approximately 45% of AIA’s annual electricity consumption. In 2024, AIA proceeded with Phase B of ROUTE 2025 by securing financing and awarding the installation of a 35.5 MWp photovoltaic park and an 82 MWh battery energy storage system. With its completion by the end of 2025, AIA will be able to fully produce 100% of its electricity needs through on-site renewable self-generation, maximising long-term energy autonomy until the end of its concession in 2046.
In parallel, AIA is progressing with the electrification of its vehicle fleet and the replacement of natural gas boilers with heat pumps, targeting reduction in its Scope 1 emissions. These measures are fully integrated into AIA’s holistic sustainability strategy, which emphasises environmental stewardship, climate resilience, and resource efficiency, while also improving environmental conditions for neighbouring communities.
In 2024, AIA also succeeded in upgrading its Airport Carbon Accreditation to Level 4+, confirming the credibility of its carbon transition pathway and its alignment with global best practices.
ROUTE 2025 aims for the self-production of clean energy within the Airport through photovoltaic systems for self-consumption of its electricity needs, which correspond to more than 80% of AIA's carbon footprint. This significant investment not only underscores AIA's commitment to environmental responsibility but also enhances Athens' identity as a sustainable destination.
