International Airport Athinai/ Eleftherios Venizelos (LGAV) IFR

LGAV requires PPR for GA, with handling mandatory and typically arranged in advance through agents such as Goldair or Skyserv. Parking is limited, with stays often restricted to 4–24 hours unless an extension is granted by the handler; longer parking is PPR and not always approved. Slot times are required, and operations are busy, with ATC efficiently sequencing GA between airliners on the ILS. Both VFR and IFR arrivals are possible, but expect busy frequencies and potentially long taxi routes, especially when landing on runway 30.

Fees vary widely depending on handler, parking duration, and use of AOPA discounts. For short stops or overnight parking with AOPA card, total costs typically range from about €100 to €300; longer stays or heavier aircraft can incur much higher charges, sometimes exceeding €700 for 48 hours. Example: landing plus one night with AOPA discount about €100; another example: tech stop about €90; for 2 days parking about €330; a week’s parking for a heavier aircraft about €600. Without AOPA or for non-crew passengers, fees can be significantly higher. Some handlers may charge additional fixed costs or commission.

Avgas and Jet A1 are available but refueling can be slow—delays of 30–90 minutes are common, especially if requested at departure or during busy periods. Refueling is handled by WFS; payment is separate from airport fees. The GAT (General Aviation Terminal) is separate from the main terminal and not within walking distance; access to the city is by taxi (about €40), but taxis may have difficulty finding the GAT.

Facilities include a GAT with a café and toilets (security check required to re-enter airside). Customs and immigration are available for international arrivals; passport checks may be waived for intra-EU flights but are present for non-EU/non-Schengen traffic. The airport operates 24 hours.

ATC is professional and helpful but expect complex procedures on both arrival and departure, including specific VFR routing requirements and altitude restrictions. Procedures vary; see AIP/NOTAM for current details.

LGAV offers full-service international access with efficient handling when well-prepared, but high fees, strict parking limits, slow refueling, and complex ground logistics make it best suited as a tech stop or short-stay entry point rather than a base for extended visits.