Spotting at Athens Airport

by Matt Falcus October 31, 2016

written by Matt Falcus October 31, 2016

By Hansueli Krapf This file was uploaded with Commonist. [CC BY-SA 3.0], via Wikimedia Commons

Athens’ newer Eleftherios Venizelos International Airport is situated to the east of the city and was opened in 2001. It was built to replace the original Hellenikon Airport in the city centre, which was limited by space and unhappy neighbours.

The new airport features two long parallel runways and a single main terminal building, with a satellite building to handle extra aircraft. It is the busiest airport in Greece, and a hub for Olympic Air, Aegean Airlines and SkyGreece Airlines. Most major airlines in Europe and the Middle East serve the airport, including some low-cost carriers. Some airlines from North America and the Far East also send aircraft daily.

At either side of the terminal building are ramps for commuter aircraft, cargo, business and private aircraft, and maintenance.

Spotting Locations

McDonalds Restaurant
On the 4th floor of the terminal, this location has plenty of seating and large windows give views over the gates, taxiways and eastern runway. Photography is possible, but not always recommended. Most movements will be seen from here.

Terminal Departures Level
Walking outside the terminal at Departures level, turn right and you’ll find an area with views over the other runway. There are shaded seats here to enjoy the view, although photography is fairly difficult. Walking a little further to the end of the pedestrian area gives some views over the executive jet ramp.

Athens Spotting Hotel

Sofitel Athens Airport
Athens Airport, Attiki Odos, Spata-Artemida 190 04 | +30 21 0354 4000 | www.sofitel.com
This hotel is right outside the airport terminal. Ask for a high room facing the airport and you won’t miss many movements, which can be read off with binoculars. Photography is not really possible.