Zela Aviation to Restore Two Historic Aircraft in Greece for Public Viewing

Cyprus-based air charter group Zela Aviation recently acquired two historic aircraft that were left abandoned at the former international airport of Athens at Ellinikon (or Hellinikon).

Aiming to preserve aviation history in Greece and Cyprus, Zela Aviation plans to restore the aircraft for public viewing.

A real treasure for the history of aviation in Greece and Cyprus, the two aircraft had been on the site of the city’s former airport since 2001.

BAC1-11

One aircraft is a BAC1-11 in the colours of the Hellenic Air Force, one of the few aircraft of this type worldwide, which belonged to the Cyprus Airways fleet for many years.

Once the aircraft is restored, it will be donated to the Municipality of Lavrio to take a place next to the city’s harbour. The initial idea was to transport the aircraft to Cyprus in the historic colours of the Cyprus Airways, but at the current stage, the transportation process was deemed particularly difficult.

Boeing 727

The second aircraft is a Boeing 727, acquired in 1968 by Aristotle Onassis for the legendary fleet of Olympic Airways, later known as Olympic Airlines.

After maintenance and renovation, the aircraft will be preserved until a final decision is made regarding the location where it will be displayed.

“These two aircraft are part of the history of Greek and Cypriot Aviation,” Zela Aviation President Andreas Christodoulides said.

“The exhibition of these two aircraft to the public will provide an opportunity for people, especially the younger generation, to travel back in time and discover the fascinating world of the aviation industry,” he added.

The transportation and reassembly of the two aircraft will be handled by the company Notis Cranes.

The Ellinikon International Airport was the primary international gateway to Greece for 63 years. Following its closure on March 28, 2001, it was replaced in service by Athens International Airport Eleftherios Venizelos.