The Airlines Have Chosen: This Is, Once Again, The Best Airport in Europe

Athens International Airport continues to consolidate its position as one of the leading airports in Europe, after winning first place at the Routes Europe 2026 Awards, considered one of the most important events in the European aviation industry.

The win was awarded to Athens International Airport in the category of airports with more than 20 million passengers per year, the most competitive category in the competition.

Athens International Airport staff. Photo: Athens International Airport

The event took place from May 18 to 20 in Rimini, Italy, as part of a major annual conference for the European aviation industry. According to the airport's announcement, Athens managed to repeat last year's achievement and maintain its first place thanks to its marketing strategy and activities to develop the city's aviation market.

The Routes Awards are considered unique in the world of aviation, as the winners are selected exclusively by the airlines themselves, who vote and recognize airports and entities that have excelled in developing air routes and strengthening air connectivity.

Athens Airport was joined in its category by airports in Brussels, Munich, Rome, and Sabiha in Istanbul.

The numbers speak for themselves.

Athens' operational figures for 2025 illustrate the strength of the growth. The airport served 34 million passengers, an increase of 6.7% compared to 2024 - a new record in its history.

During the year, 21 airlines began operations in Athens, 9 of which were new to the Athenian market, along with 29 new destinations.

In addition, 20 frequency increases and new services were implemented on existing routes, further strengthening the city's connectivity to the international aviation network.

The airport management also said that this is a particularly significant achievement because it reflects the confidence of the airlines themselves, and provides a windfall for the continued development of the Athens aviation market in the coming years.

Athens International Airport staff. Photo: Athens International Airport