Business aviation operators planning flights to Athens International Airport (LGAV) should be aware that significant operational changes took effect on March 30, 2025, as part of Greece’s Summer 2025 coordination program. These updates impact a wide range of operators—including private (D), air taxi (N), and ferry/tech stop flights—flying under IFR, VFR, Z, and Y rules. Notably, this marks the first time that VFR flights at LGAV are subject to formal slot coordination.

The new rules primarily apply to aircraft over 5,700 kg MTOW and require more precise pre-planning to avoid operational disruptions. While this period still marks the peak of Mediterranean traffic, volumes are not expected to break records this year, with global demand influenced by trade tensions, geopolitical instability, and ongoing economic uncertainty.

Key Changes Now in Effect

Reduction in Free Parking Time

The free parking period at LGAV is now limited to 2 hours, down from previous allowances of 8–12 hours. Any stay beyond 2 hours requires confirmation, which can only be issued within 24 hours of the operation. Even short-turn stops now require confirmed slots in advance—no exceptions.

Slot Coordination and Peak Traffic Times

LGAV is now operating under Level 2 slot coordination. Operators should expect potential deviations from requested times, particularly for last-minute or short-notice requests. Peak traffic periods include 0600Z, 0900Z, 1200Z, and 1500Z. Delays of one hour or more may occur during these times if confirmed slots are not secured early.

Slot and PPR Requirements

Aircraft over 5,700 kg MTOW are subject to mandatory slot coordination. This applies to IFR, VFR, Z, and Y flight rules. Affected flight categories include private (D), air taxi (N), and ferry/tech stop operations.

The following categories are exempt: ambulance, state, military, diversions, search and rescue, police, firefighting, humanitarian, and training/test flights.

Application Windows and Coordination

Slots must be requested in turnaround format. The application window opens seven days prior to the day of operation.

Ground time rules:

• Up to 120 minutes: Slot coordination required, PPR not needed

• Over 120 minutes: Requires PPR, which can only be submitted one day prior to operation (Ops -1)

For last-minute or same-day operations, PPR must first be granted by the airport authority before a slot can be confirmed. PPR must align with the approved slot time within a ±20-minute tolerance.

Slot Flexibility and Limitations

Reducing your stay time after a PPR has been granted does not require an updated PPR—only a change to the runway slot. Increasing stay time, however, requires a new PPR request, which may be difficult to secure on short notice due to congestion.

Slot tolerance is expected to be ±20 minutes. Eurocontrol may suspend off-slot flight plans during Greece’s FLS enforcement period, typically from June through September.

How to Apply

Slot requests can be submitted via the Online Coordination System (OCS) or manually to the Hellenic Slot Coordination Authority at slot@hsca.gr.

Slot coordination applies from March 30 to October 25, 2025. Slots are non-transferable unless:

• Both aircraft operate under the same AOC

• Aircraft type remains the same

• The slot is booked under the airline designator

Slot ID must be included in FPL Item 18 using ASL format.

Helicopter Operations

Helicopters are excluded from slot coordination requirements, regardless of MTOW. However, PPR requirements still apply where applicable.

Operator Best Practices

• Plan early: Submitting runway slot requests seven days in advance allows time to obtain PPR one day prior to operation.

• Avoid overstating ground time: Exaggerated requests for parking time are likely to be denied due to limited apron capacity.

• Account for FLS enforcement: Off-slot FPLs may be suspended by Eurocontrol from June through September.

With these changes now active, proactive planning is essential. Even short-stop operations must be coordinated in advance, and last-minute availability is limited. Universal Aviation Greece recommends booking early and working closely with your trip support provider to reduce the risk of disruption.