Athens Transforms Air Travel with ATHENIAN PBN Project, Boosting Efficiency and Sustainable Flights Across Europe: Here is What You Should Know

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Athens is set to revolutionize air travel in Europe with the ATHENIAN project, a comprehensive overhaul of the Athens Terminal Manoeuvring Area (TMA) designed to integrate advanced satellite-based Performance Based Navigation (PBN) procedures. Launched in January 2023 and slated for completion by the end of 2027, the initiative promises to streamline arrivals and departures at Athens International Airport while reducing the environmental footprint of flights over the region.

The five-year ATHENIAN project is co-funded by the European Union under the Connecting Europe Facility – Transport Sector, aligning with the SESAR (Single European Sky ATM Research) framework. Implementation is driven by a consortium of aviation experts, including the Hellenic Aviation Service Provider, AEGEAN Airlines, SKY express, and EUROCONTROL, coordinated by Athens International Airport S.A. Key oversight and support come from EU/CINEA and the EYSSAE Unit of the Hellenic Ministry of Economy & Finance, ensuring compliance with EU regulations and strategic aviation standards.

Modernizing the Athens Terminal Manoeuvring Area

The primary goal of ATHENIAN is the creation of a fully PBN-based airspace concept. This will replace traditional vectoring and radio communication-intensive procedures with satellite-guided navigation, enhancing operational efficiency. The redesign also aims to harmonize Athens’ airspace operations with the European Air Traffic Management Master Plan, contributing to a safer, faster, and more environmentally sustainable flight network.

The project’s phased approach has already yielded measurable progress. The first phase, completed in January 2024, delivered a topographical obstacle survey and initial “Overlay PBN” procedures within the existing TMA setup. Phase two, which began in April 2024, focuses on the comprehensive redesign of the TMA with fully integrated PBN procedures. A significant milestone was reached in February 2025 with the delivery of the Concept of Operations (ConOps), detailing operational improvements for both arrivals and departures.

Collaborative Effort Across Aviation Stakeholders

The success of ATHENIAN relies on collaboration among a broad range of stakeholders. The Hellenic Civil Aviation Authority, Hellenic Air Force, airline operators including Ryanair, and general aviation users actively contribute insights and feedback. Local communities are kept informed throughout implementation to ensure that operational changes align with public interest and environmental considerations. Specialized contractors such as Elliniki Photogrammetriki EPE and DFS Aviation Services GmbH provide expert technical services to support the project’s ambitious goals.

EUROCONTROL plays a critical role in the project, offering expertise in TMA efficiency metrics, PBN validation, and runway capacity integration. By collaborating with airport stakeholders, the project leverages data-driven solutions to optimize air traffic flow, reduce aircraft holding patterns, and minimize congestion over Athens’ airspace.

Environmental and Operational Benefits

The new PBN procedures will reduce the reliance on conventional vectoring and extensive radio communication between controllers and pilots. This not only improves safety but also enhances efficiency, allowing aircraft to follow precise, fuel-efficient flight paths. Reduced fuel consumption translates to lower carbon emissions, making ATHENIAN a key contributor to greener aviation practices in Europe.

Airlines including AEGEAN and SKY express expect the new procedures to deliver measurable improvements in scheduling reliability, reduced delays, and smoother air traffic operations. By cutting down aircraft manoeuvres in holding patterns, the redesign also promises quieter and less disruptive flight operations over surrounding communities.

Strengthening the European Air Traffic Network

Beyond its local impact, ATHENIAN is designed to integrate seamlessly with the broader European Air Traffic Management network. Coordinated improvements in arrivals and departures will enhance traffic predictability and support better capacity management across the continent. The project sets a precedent for modernized airspace management, providing a template for other European airports seeking to implement PBN technology.

Towards the Future of Travel in Athens

As the ATHENIAN project advances, travelers can expect a smoother, more efficient experience when flying in and out of Athens. Enhanced safety, reduced delays, and environmentally responsible navigation align with Europe’s broader air transport strategy, supporting sustainable travel and boosting confidence in air transport networks.

By combining cutting-edge technology with multi-stakeholder collaboration, Athens is positioning itself as a model city for the future of aviation. The project demonstrates how strategic planning and innovation can harmonize operational efficiency with environmental responsibility, offering travelers and airlines alike a tangible improvement in air travel quality.

INFORMATION SOURCE:  Athens International Airport