Greek air traffic controllers warn of safety risks due to staff shortages and outdated technology
The President of the Greek Air Traffic Controllers' Union, Panayotis Psaros, has raised serious concerns over staff shortages and the continued use of outdated technology in Greece’s air traffic control systems, warning that the situation could pose a threat to aviation safety.
In an interview with Mega TV, Psaros highlighted that despite the growing volume of air traffic in Greek airports, air traffic controllers are forced to operate under severe understaffing and outdated equipment.
He specifically noted that the systems used at Athens International Airport (Eleftherios Venizelos) to manage arrivals and departures are 26 years old and unable to accurately detect overlapping flight paths — a basic and critical feature in modern air traffic control.
Psaros added that even if a new system contract were signed today, the earliest possible implementation would not occur until 2029.
The union president also emphasized that staff shortages in some departments have reached up to 40%, a level he described as dangerous for maintaining the safety and efficiency of air traffic operations.
“These problems are not just internal operational issues. They directly affect the safety of air travel in Greece,” Psaros warned, calling for urgent investment and reform in the sector.
