Kythira Airport Officially Takes Name Of Alexander Aristotle Onassis

The Kythira National Airport is now officially known as “Alexandros Aristotelous Onassis.” The change of name was made to reflect the contribution of Alexander Onassis to the airport’s construction and to Greek Aviation in general.

The official naming ceremony took place earlier this month with the attendance of many politicians, local government representatives and professionals from the Greek aviation sector.

During his speech, the airport’s manager, Nikolaos Stahtiaris, stressed that the airport is the first lever of the island’s development and should be given high priority by the state.

He noted that for the airport to be able to receive all types of aircraft with no restrictions, the runway 02/20 must be extended by 500 meters and a fuel park for the refueling of aircraft must be established.

In regards to the airport’s name change, the Municipality of Kythira initially received permission from the Alexander A. Onassis Foundation to use the name and later received approval by the Greek Transport Ministry.

The name change of the island’s airport was based on the example of many Greek airports that have taken names of important historical figures.

A statue is expected to be erected at the airport in honor of Alexander Onassis.

Kythira Island