Description

Since its establishment in 1996, sustainable operation and development, particularly environmental responsibility, have been integral aspects of Athens International Airport's (AIA) business and operational strategy. From the early years, AIA recognized that the major challenge for the future of airports and air transport would be addressing the industry's impact on climate change.

Leading the way in 2009, AIA was one of the first airports certified under ACI EUROPE's Airport Carbon Accreditation (ACA) program for carbon footprint recording. We committed to a specific timeframe and quantitative targets to reduce carbon emissions from our operations. As a result, we have achieved a carbon footprint reduction exceeding 60% between 2005 and 2023, despite significant increases in passenger traffic. This reduction was made possible through major infrastructure investments and numerous operational interventions.

In 2016, AIA upgraded its ACA certification to Level 3+, achieving carbon neutrality. Despite this significant achievement—Athens Airport remains the only airport in the country with carbon neutrality—it became clear to the international community that Carbon Neutrality was not enough to address the escalating problem of anthropogenic pollutants. The goal had to be 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, AIA announced in 2019 its plan to achieve net zero carbon by 2025, well ahead of the 2050 target. This initiative, named ROUTE 2025, embodies the concept of a "pathway" to sustainability. Despite the challenges posed by the COVID-19 pandemic, AIA has remained committed to this goal.

ROUTE 2025 aims for the self-production of clean energy within the airport through photovoltaic systems for self-consumption, covering 100% of our electricity needs. This corresponds to over 80% of the Company's current carbon footprint. This significant investment not only underscores our commitment to environmental responsibility but also enhances Athens' identity as a sustainable destination.

AIA's efforts significantly contribute to the United Nations Sustainable Development Goals, specifically SDG 7: "Affordable and Clean Energy," SDG 11: "Sustainable Cities and Communities," SDG 12: "Responsible Consumption and Production," and SDG 13: "Climate Action," positioning Athens International Airport as a leader in sustainability and innovation.

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Impact on Society

Athens International Airport (AIA) is advancing its commitment to Net Zero Carbon through the strategic installation of photovoltaic stations for self-generation and self-consumption. This initiative is pivotal in addressing the climate crisis, producing clean and affordable energy, shaping a sustainable urban environment, and promoting responsible production.

Phase A: Development of Greece’s largest self-generation unit

Clean Energy Production: Upon completion of Phase A, the photovoltaic unit will generate 25.2 GWh annually, covering 45% of AIA's annual energy consumption. This output is equivalent to the energy consumption of approximately 6,650 households.
Emissions Reduction: The project will reduce CO2 emissions by over 11,550 tonnes annually.
Economic Benefits: The initiative will lead to reduced electricity costs for the airport.
Innovation: AIA will become the first airport in Europe, and internationally, with annual passenger traffic exceeding 25 million, to implement such a significant self-generation project.

Phase B: Expansion with a new 35.5 MWp Photovoltaic Park within the Airport perimeter

Benefits: The new photovoltaic park will enhance the balance between self-generation and self-consumption through an integrated storage system. It will also alleviate pressure on the national electricity generation and transmission systems.
Electrification of the vehicle fleet & Replacement of Natural Gas with Heat Pumps: The installation of heat pumps, combined with the electrification of the vehicle fleet, will significantly lower Scope 1 emissions and provide additional cooling for the airport's air conditioning needs. The anticipated increase in electricity demand from these projects will be fully supported by the photovoltaic parks, thus achieving the goal of net zero carbon emissions.

This comprehensive approach underscores AIA's dedication to sustainability and positions it as a leader in environmental responsibility within the aviation industry.

Initiative Location

Spata, Attica - Athens International Airport (AIA) Facilities

Working with Organization

Workers Participation

Athens International Airport's (AIA) management, through the Company's sustainable development strategy, has positioned environmental responsibility as a central pillar of airport operations. The vision of the management and shareholders for international innovation in eliminating carbon emissions from AIA's operations relies heavily on the dedication and hard work of the Company's employees. These employees form the project teams responsible for the ROUTE 2025 project.

Employee engagement extends beyond professional duties; all employees act as ambassadors of this initiative, both professionally and in their daily lives. Their active participation and commitment to conveying the importance of effective climate change mitigation are crucial to the project's success. The collective effort of AIA's employees and volunteers demonstrates the high level of engagement and shared responsibility necessary to achieve the ambitious goals of ROUTE 2025.

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Benefits for Οrganization

Athens International Airport (AIA) is advancing towards Net Zero Carbon Emissions with a strategic focus on photovoltaic energy and green initiatives.

Phase One: Development of the largest self-generation unit in Greece. (Completion: March 2023)

Capacity: 16 MWp
Area: 210,000 sqm
Energy Production: 25.2 GWh annually (45% of AIA’s energy needs—equivalent to the consumption of approximately 6,650 households)
Emissions Reduction: Over 11,550 tonnes of CO2 annually
Economic Benefits: Reduced electricity costs
Innovation: AIA becomes the first airport in Europe and globally, with over 25 million annual passengers, to implement this scale of solar energy project

Phase 2: Expansion with a new 35.5 MWp Photovoltaic Park within the Airport perimeter (Completion: End of 2025)

Energy Storage System: 82 MWh battery
Goal: The output will be sufficient to meet the entire annual electricity demand of Athens International Airport
Benefits: Balances self-generation with consumption, reduces strain on national electricity systems, and enhances sustainability

Electrification of the vehicle fleet

In line with international efforts for green transition, Athens International Airport (AIA) has initiated a program to replace its vehicle fleet with electric ones. This program focuses on the following:

Vehicle Fleet Replacement: Focus on Airport buses and operational vans that accrue the highest annual mileage.
Charging Infrastructure: Installation of required charging infrastructure and electrical systems, including the reinforcement and expansion of the Medium Voltage network, to support the new electric vehicles.
Electric Vehicle Chargers: Electric vehicle chargers in airport parking areas for passengers, employees, and visitors.
Replacement of Natural Gas with Heat Pumps: Replaces natural gas with heat pumps to reduce Scope 1 carbon emissions.
Additional Cooling: Provides extra cooling for air conditioning needs
Integration: Increased electricity demand covered by photovoltaic parks, supporting the goal of net zero carbon emissions.

These initiatives underscore AIA’s commitment to sustainability, reducing operational costs, and enhancing the airport’s role as a leader in environmental stewardship.

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Athens International Airport S.A.

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