Kalamata Airport Upgrade Plans Move Ahead with New Concession Bid

Photo source: Growthfund

Only one proposal was submitted in the tender process for the 40-year concession to manage, operate, develop, expand, maintain, and exploit Kalamata International Airport “Captain Vassilis Constantakopoulos”, according to Greece’s national fund, Growthfund.

Despite initial interest from leading domestic engineering firms and international airport operators, the sole proposal came from an investment consortium comprising FRAPORT AG – DELTA AIRPORT INVESTMENTS SA – PILEAS SA.

Evaluation of this proposal will begin immediately, with the goal of selecting the preferred investor by the end of 2024, following established protocols.

Through the concession of Kalamata Airport, Growthfund aims to implement a robust business plan focused on expanding and upgrading the airport’s infrastructure while ensuring high-quality operational and maintenance services.

As part of the project, Growthfund will acquire a 10 percent stake in the concessionaire company’s share capital to promote project continuity and facilitate the completion of necessary upgrades, ultimately boosting tourism in Messinia and the broader southern Peloponnese region.

Messinia hoteliers seek expedited procedures

Photo source: Hellenic Civil Aviation Authority (HCAA)

Responding to the development, the Messinia Hotel Association described it as a “satisfactory step” in line with the sector’s long-standing calls for airport improvements to strengthen the destination’s tourism appeal.

“We have consistently emphasized the need for this upgrade, especially as foreign markets seek to increase air connections to our destination,” the association noted. It highlighted that beyond enhancing building facilities, expanding the runway to accommodate larger aircraft and establishing parking areas for planes awaiting departure are essential.

“Currently, the airport does not reflect the reputation and demand of Messinia and the Peloponnese overall,” the association added. “Its limitations have hampered the necessary influx of international tourists, which is crucial for stimulating the local economy.”

Photo source: Growthfund

The hoteliers expressed hope that the process will advance swiftly to recoup lost time, emphasizing that businesses in both the hospitality and catering sectors have been struggling to remain viable.

The hoteliers stressed that they have been impacted not only by delays in airport upgrades but also by competition from short-term rentals and increased tax and insurance burdens imposed by the government.