Passengers wait near a flight information screen at the Thessaloniki Airport "Makedonia" amidst disruption in flights across Greece linked to a technical problem at the Athens Flight Information Region (FIR), in Thessaloniki. AFP
The Greek Civil Aviation Authority said that some frequencies serving the Athens Flight Information Region (FIR) were experiencing a problem currently under investigation in cooperation with competent external bodies.
“To fully ensure flight safety, only part of the overflights is being handled, and restrictions have been imposed at Greek airports,” the authority said, adding that a relevant NOTAM has been issued.
The matter remains under investigation, with further announcements expected.
As a result, air traffic capacity has been significantly reduced. While flights that were already airborne were initially handled, departures have now become effectively impossible, particularly from the country’s largest hub, Athens International Airport Eleftherios Venizelos, which has been most affected by the high volume of flights, especially during the current peak period.
Regional airports have also been impacted, with flight diversions already underway as aircraft in the air are being redirected to alternative airports.
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