The Municipality of Kythira is once again pushing with determination for the long-awaited extension of the runway at the State Airport of Kythira “Alexandros Aristotelous Onassis,” marking nearly five decades of persistent efforts, delays, and bureaucratic hurdles.
The proposed project involves extending the runway from 1,480 meters to 1,799 meters and constructing a fuel park, which would allow the airport to accommodate larger aircraft, expand flight range, and attract new tourist markets, particularly from Central and Northern Europe. The total estimated cost is €4.7 million.
A feasibility study — finally approved in 2019 after months of delay — highlights the critical importance of the project. Currently, the short runway and lack of fuel infrastructure significantly limit the airport’s operational capacity. It currently serves mainly domestic flights and a limited number of seasonal international routes.
However, the project remains trapped in a cycle of bureaucratic stagnation. The Hellenic Civil Aviation Authority (HCAA) has unjustifiably delayed approval of the study and the issuance of environmental permits. In addition, the Region of Attica, despite initially allocating €400,000 for final project studies, later removed the funding from its budget without consulting or informing the Kythira Municipal Authority.
The Municipality is now demanding immediate funding for the final studies and tender documents for the project titled:
“Extension of the Takeoff and Landing Runway at the State Airport of Kythira Alexandros Aristotelous Onassis and Accompanying Upgrade Works.”
It specifically requests that this funding be included in the Region of Attica’s budget and technical program, in the first budget amendment following this decision. It also urges the swift signing of a programmatic agreement between the Region and the Local Property Management Committee of Kythira and Antikythera, so that the study tender process can begin.
Additionally, the Municipality calls on the HCAA and the supervising Ministry to intervene decisively and efficiently to prevent further unjustified delays in the required study approvals, within the scope of their legal responsibilities.
The continued delays have left the airport stuck with outdated infrastructure, seriously hindering the island’s development prospects and the enhancement of its tourism potential.
The Municipal Council’s decision calls for active and immediate support for the runway extension, sending a clear message to all involved authorities: this is a project of both national and local significance, with substantial economic and social impact.
