Its evolution AEGEAN in Chania, after its 25 years of operation and the company’s network, planning for 2025 and starting a new direct route to Rhodes, the cooperation with Fraport Greece and the importance of partnerships for the continuous promotion of the county’s dynamics were the main points regarding the position of the CEO of the company, Mr. Dimitris Gerogiannisas they happened during the event held in collaboration with Fraport Greece in Chania, wednesday, November 27, on the occasion of the two companies’ long-term presence in the prefecture, but also their effective collaboration in promoting .of tourism.
(from left) - Giorgos Vilos, General Manager Development Fraport Greece / andreas Fiorentinos, EOT Secretary General / Dimitris Gerogiannis, CEO AEGEAN
Below are some points for their arrangement:
- Chania and the base of the company at “Ioannis Daskalogiannis” airport is one of the important destinations of the AEGEAN network which this year ends 25 years of dynamic progress but also of hard work and collaboration with local bodies, Region, EOT, Authorities Municipalities, Hotels. , Travel Agents, Business Bodies, Universities, etc.Collaboration based on the common goal of promoting the rich tourism product, but also the experience offered by Chania and the wider region.
- the prefecture of Chania is one of the few destinations in Greece that can support a quality tourism product and a rich experience all year round, although it already has many of the necessary infrastructures, most importantly, a new airport -modern upgrades worthy of its appeal. of the place, which, under the management of Fraport Greece, can adequately respond to the continuous increase in passenger traffic and to the needs of both passengers and airlines.
- AEGEAN has been operating in Chania for 25 years,having carried more than 9 million passengers to date,and Chania Airport is one of the company’s 10 operating bases.
- The excellent cooperation that AEGEAN has had over the years with Fraport Greece is the key to the common course of the two companies and the common vision, to further contribute to strengthening the dynamics of Chania 12 months a year. Investments in hotel beds are forecast to increase by more than 10% over the next 2 years, with a continued upward trend in passenger traffic. AEGEAN, for its part, increases the activity and places offered at its base, in Chania, almost every year. This is also the driving force for the entire company to continue investing in the region in both routes and destinations.
- Completing 25 years of presence, the company considers it its duty to constantly upgrade the travel experience and service of the passengers, as well as the necessary cooperation with local agencies to develop the place.
- AEGEAN began operating from Chania airport “Ioannis Daskalogiannis” in 1999,the year the company was founded,having transported almost 9 million passengers to date.
- As then, Chania airport is one of the company’s 10 bases throughout Greece, and more than 600 thousand passengers travel to and from the prefecture every year.
- Today AEGEAN continues to invest in the dynamics of the predecessor, strengthening its programs and the positions provided.
- Traditionally, the company invests mainly in the domestic network, whose passenger traffic is also sustained by the large number of connecting passengers of the network as a whole. But also the activity of charter flights, to and from Scandinavia. For years, one aircraft has been “based” in Chania to serve the flights.
(from left): Dimitra Niniou, Senior Corporate Communications Manager Marketing Greece / Eleni Mitraki, Head of Tourism Promotion Department EOT / Katerina Pollatou, Marketing & Development Manager Airline Fraport Greece / marina Valvi, Marketing Director AEGEAN / Marina Spyridaki , AEGEAN Manager Corporate Affairs
For his part, Mr. Giorgos Vilos,General Manager of the greek Development Frameworkhe referred in detail to the excellent cooperation between Fraport Greece and AEGEAN,and also the passenger traffic recorded at Chania airport “Ioannis Daskalogiannis”.
- For Fraport Greece, AEGEAN has been a strategic partner and travel companion from the beginning and for all these 8 years.
- Both companies progressed and are still progressing together,conquering new records and changing the scene in Greek air transport.
- The common goal is to attract additional passenger traffic, open new lines – and therefore improve the connectivity of the 14 destinations – and of course the upgraded travel experience in all areas covered by the services offered by Fraport Greece available.
- In particular, the close and constructive cooperation that has existed over the years with the Chania Hotel Association, in terms of attracting / strengthening the presence of important foreign markets in Chania, as well as extending the tourist season, has borne fruit.
- Fraport of Greece will continue to be dynamically present in Chania and together with AEGEAN will support in every way the further development of the destination and its further consolidation as a 12 month destination.
- Passenger traffic in 2016 was 2,966,697 passengers, and a new traffic record is expected this year with an increase of over 30%. Specifically, for the first time Chania airport will reach close to 4 million. passengers.
- In the 2 months from October-November 2024 the traffic increase will be close to 40% compared to 2019,which reflects the extension of the tourist season.
Giorgos Vilos, General manager of the Greek Development Framework
On the sidelines of the event, the Hotel Association of the Prefecture of Chania presented an honorary plaque to both AEGEAN and Fraport Greece, thanking them for their collaboration and valuable contribution to promoting the dynamics of the tourism product of the city of Chania and the wider region.
How has the collaboration between AEGEAN Airlines and Fraport Greece impacted tourism in Chania?
Interview between the Time.news Editor and Mr. Dimitris Gerogiannis, CEO of AEGEAN Airlines
Time.news Editor: Good afternoon, Mr. Gerogiannis.It’s a pleasure to have you with us today. As AEGEAN celebrates its 25-year milestone in Chania, how would you describe the evolution of the company during this time?
Dimitris Gerogiannis: Good afternoon, and thank you for having me. our journey over the past 25 years has been remarkable.since we began operations from Chania’s “Ioannis Daskalogiannis” airport in 1999, we have worked tirelessly to connect this stunning region with the rest of Greece and beyond. Carrying over 9 million passengers during this time reflects not just our growth, but also the dedication of our team and our partnerships with local entities.
Time.news Editor: Speaking of partnerships, your collaboration with Fraport Greece seems vital. Can you elaborate on how this alliance has contributed to AEGEAN’s growth and the tourism dynamics in Chania?
Dimitris Gerogiannis: Absolutely. Our cooperation with Fraport Greece has been pivotal. Their management of the airport has allowed us to enhance our services and accommodate the increasing passenger traffic. Together, we strive to promote Chania not just as a summer destination, but as an attractive location year-round.This synergy helps in amplifying the rich tourism product and experience that chania offers.
Time.news Editor: Fascinating! AEGEAN is planning to launch a new direct route from Chania to Rhodes. What do you hope to achieve with this addition to your network?
Dimitris Gerogiannis: The new route from Chania to Rhodes, starting on April 14, is part of our strategy to strengthen connectivity within Greece. Its crucial for fostering tourism between these two grand islands and enhancing regional exchanges. We anticipate that by offering nearly four weekly flights at peak season, we’ll facilitate not only leisure travel but also a closer linkage between businesses and communities in both regions.
Time.news Editor: AEGEAN has been focusing on investment in Chania despite challenges in the aviation sector, notably post-COVID. How do you foresee the company navigating those challenges moving into 2025?
Dimitris Gerogiannis: The past few years have indeed posed significant challenges due to supply chain disruptions and a shortage of aircraft. Though, our commitment to Chania remains unwavering. We are planning a 5% increase in domestic operations and a 20% boost in international routes from Chania in 2025. We’re focused on actively seeking solutions and investments that will allow us to grow, including maintaining additional flights to popular routes like Athens.
Time.news Editor: It’s great to hear about these plans for growth. Can you share what kind of passenger experience improvements AEGEAN is aiming for as you continue to upgrade your services?
Dimitris Gerogiannis: enhancing the passenger experience is at the core of our mission. Our goal is to ensure that every flight is not just a journey but an enjoyable experience. We’re investing in customer service enhancements, improved in-flight offerings, and digital tools that streamline the travel process. A dedicated focus on feedback from our passengers helps us constantly refine and elevate their journey with us.
Time.news Editor: As a final question, looking ahead, what excites you most about the future of AEGEAN and its role in shaping the tourism landscape in Greece?
dimitris Gerogiannis: What excites me most is the potential for innovation and collaboration in the tourism sector. With partnerships like that of AEGEAN and Fraport Greece, alongside investments in infrastructure, we can truly enhance the travel experience in Greece. There’s so much untapped potential in promoting year-round tourism, and I believe AEGEAN is well-positioned to lead that charge as we continue to connect peopel, cultures, and experiences.
Time.news Editor: Thank you, Mr. Gerogiannis. It’s been a pleasure discussing AEGEAN’s journey and future with you. We look forward to witnessing the continued growth and success of your endeavors.
Dimitris Gerogiannis: Thank you very much! I appreciate the opportunity to share our story and vision.