Amendment On Ground Handling Announced

The tender procedure for the provision of ground handling services to 34 Greek regional airports has not been completed following a decision made by the Council of State, the Infrastructure, Transports and Networks Ministry said last month.

According to the ministry, the aim is to undertake a new initiative for a legal framework with many stakeholders to the benefit of passengers.

Legislation is soon to be tabled in parliament and the competitive bidding process will follow.

The ministry referred to an amendment included in the tax draft law that provides for a one-year transitional period that allows ground handling for airplanes in 34 Greek airports that service less than two million passengers and under 50,000 tons of cargo annually.

The amendment provides that the duration of the services should be less than 12 months with a six-month extension option.

The Hellenic Association of Airline Representatives (SAAE) expressed its satisfaction on the abolishment of ground handling monopoly at the 34 Greek regional airports.

“The decision reduces airline service costs for the benefit of Greek tourism,” the association underlined.