The evolution of AEGEAN in Chania over its 25 years of operation and the companyS network, the planning for 2025 and the launch of a new direct route to Rhodes, the collaboration with Fraport Greece and the importance of partnerships for the continuous promotion of the dynamism of the prefecture. the main points regarding the position of the CEO of the company, Mr. Dimitris Geroyannis, as they were 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 for the promotion of tourism.
The main points of the speech of the AEGEAN CEO in Chania
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 drawing attention to the rich tourism product, but also to 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.
Since 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 each 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.
In recent years, around 600-650 thousand passengers have been transported.
The 2024 it will close,having carried around 630 thousand passengers,and 550 thousand passengers on the domestic networkwhich,though,includes more than 50% connecting passengers,and 80,000 in the foreign network.
Passenger traffic on the domestic network increased by 5% compared to 2023, mainly due to the continued investment in the Athens – Chania – Athens route (adding 1 more daily flight).
In terms of planning for the new year (2025) and despite the supply chain problems of the entire aviation industry and the lack of aircraft in the post-covid era, AEGEAN continues to invest in Chania, planning an increase of about 5% in the town , ie but also an increase of about 20% in international routes from Chania airport.
Specifically, AEGEAN will provide almost 676,000 seats in the domestic network, and almost 108,000 in the international network.
For the domestic network and the Athens - Chania – Athens route, 4 daily flights are maintained in the winter, increasing to 6 during the peak summer season.
Throughout the year,the Chania – Thessaloniki – Chania route is maintained (three weekly flights).
The new route Rhodes – Chania – Rhodes is expected to start at Easter, and especially on April 14, and will be in operation until October with an ATR 42-600 aircraft. Initially, there will be 2 weekly flights every Monday and Friday, and at the peak of the summer season, the flights will increase to 4 weeks and will also take place on Thursdays and Sundays.
There was also a lot of reference to the importance of cooperation and partnerships.
Two companies, AEGEAN and Fraport Greece, work closely together, contributing to the progress of tourism as well as the prosperity of the place.
Synergies are the most effective way to achieve common goals, which is why the company’s popularity is to collaborate in every way with all agencies that share a common vision.
Therefore, the strategic decision was made regarding AEGEAN’s participation in the ”Tourism Partnership for Chania”, planning and implementing since its inception until today the many activities aimed at further promoting the city of Chania and the wider region over time, but also to emphasize different experiences and choice forms of tourism.
In collaboration with the excellent partners from Marketing Greece, EOT, N. Chania Hotel Association, Eurobank and Fraport Greece by combining the business knowlege of private entities with the knowledge and passion of local entities, highlighting the treasures of the place , but also on the unique experiences it offers to visitors, not only during the summer season, but also. winter.
How is AEGEAN Airlines planning to expand its network and routes in the coming years?
Interview between the Time.news Editor and Dimitris Geroyannis, CEO of AEGEAN Airlines
time.news Editor: Mr.Geroyannis, thank you for joining us today. It’s an exciting time for AEGEAN, especially with the recent event celebrating 25 years of operations in Chania. Can you share what this milestone means for both AEGEAN and the local community?
Dimitris Geroyannis: Thank you for having me. Celebrating 25 years in chania is not just a significant milestone for AEGEAN; it represents our commitment and deep-rooted relationship with this beatiful region. Over these years, we’ve transported over 9 million passengers, helping to expose Chania’s rich tourism offerings to a broader audience. This partnership with local entities, municipalities, and the regional authorities has been a key factor in our success.
Time.news Editor: Absolutely, collaboration seems to be at the heart of AEGEAN’s operations. You mentioned during your speech about the importance of partnerships. How has your collaboration with Fraport Greece contributed to AEGEAN’s growth in Chania?
Dimitris Geroyannis: Our collaboration with Fraport Greece has been essential.With their management of the “Ioannis Daskalogiannis” airport, we’ve seen upgrades that meet the increasing passenger traffic demand, essential for a robust tourism infrastructure.Together, we share a common vision to boost Chania’s tourism potential year-round, which is vital for sustaining local businesses and the economy.
Time.news Editor: Looking forward, can you tell us about any upcoming plans, especially the new direct route to Rhodes?
Dimitris Geroyannis: Yes, we’re thrilled about launching new direct routes, including one to Rhodes in 2025. This is part of our strategy to expand our network and enhance accessibility.we believe that connecting beautiful destinations like Chania and Rhodes not onyl increases tourism but also enriches the experience for travelers who can explore more of Greece seamlessly.
Time.news Editor: Speaking of enriching experiences, AEGEAN plays a vital role in promoting quality tourism. How do you ensure that the travel experience continually meets the expectations of modern travelers?
Dimitris Geroyannis: Our commitment to enhancing the travel experience is ongoing. It involves investing in our service, fleet, and infrastructure.We’re continually upgrading what we offer—not just in terms of destinations but also the quality of service and experience on board. We see our growth not just in numbers but also in travel quality.
Time.news Editor: It sounds like AEGEAN is in a strong position to support Chania and the surrounding region both as a travel hub and as a thriving tourist destination. What do you see as the future of tourism in Chania?
Dimitris Geroyannis: Chania has immense potential, given its unique natural beauty, cultural heritage, and developing infrastructure. We foresee an upward trend in tourist traffic, aided by our investments. Actually,we expect hotel bed investments to rise by over 10% in the next two years. By continuing to work in partnership with local stakeholders, I believe we can promote Chania as a year-round destination, attracting visitors who seek authentic experiences.
Time.news Editor: Mr. Geroyannis, thank you for sharing your insights with us. it’s clear that AEGEAN’s strong commitment to Chania will foster both tourism and local community growth. We look forward to watching how this evolves over the coming years.
Dimitris Geroyannis: Thank you! It’s an exciting time, and our journey with Chania is far from over. I invite everyone to discover all that our beloved destination has to offer.
