Greece closes its airspace
A technical failure that occurred in the Athens FIR line during the morning hours has caused a crisis in Greek airspace. While flights were suspended for security reasons, numerous international flights were canceled, and some aircraft were held in the air or turned back.
12punto
A serious technical failure that has been occurring in Greece's Athens FIR line since the morning hours has brought air traffic across the country to a near standstill.
Due to the issue, which has been ongoing since 09:00, numerous flights could not be operated at both major and regional airports across the country, primarily at Athens Eleftherios Venizelos Airport.
According to information obtained, the failure is believed to stem from the central radio frequency systems used in the Athens and Macedonia Area Control Centers, which are affiliated with the Hellenic Civil Aviation Authority.
FLIGHTS SUSPENDED, CHAOS AT AIRPORTS
As of 10:25, it was reported that departures had been completely halted at all airports across Greece. Although limited departures for 15 aircraft were permitted from Athens Eleftherios Venizelos Airport at 12:30, it was reported that the technical issue had not yet been resolved.
Aircraft departing for Greece from Dublin, Barcelona, and Paris were instructed to return to their departure airports. Some flights originating from Copenhagen and Malta were canceled entirely.
The majority of other flights arriving in Athens were placed in a holding pattern in the air.
THESSALONIKI AIRPORT CLOSED
It was announced that Thessaloniki Airport had been completely closed due to the failure, and it was stated that the issue affected all flights to Greece.
"COMMUNICATION WITH AIRCRAFT LOST"
The head of the air traffic controllers' union told Skai TV that air traffic frequencies had been lost and communication with aircraft had been severed.
The official stated that under current conditions, Greece could not accept new flights.
In an official statement from the Hellenic Civil Aviation Authority, it was reported that there was a technical problem with some frequencies serving the Athens FIR line and that the failure was being examined in detail with the relevant external stakeholders.
The statement noted that in order to ensure flight safety, only a limited number of overflights were permitted, various restrictions were implemented at airports in the country, and a NOTAM was issued in this context.
It was stated that efforts to resolve the issue are ongoing and that the public will continue to be informed about developments.