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The Regulatory & Legal Framework

01

The Regulatory & Legal Framework

The governance of Greek aviation is currently undergoing its most significant transformation in decades. As of 2026, the sector has transitioned from a rigid state-service model to a modernized, two-pillar system: an independent regulatory authority (the "new" HCAA) and a separate service provider (HASP) for air traffic management. This section explores the legal "backbone" of this system, detailing how Greece aligns its unique geographical challenges—such as the vital "Barren Line" island connections—with strict European Union safety, environmental, and digital standards.

1.1 Principal Aviation Authorities

  • The New Hellenic Civil Aviation Authority (HCAA / APA): Recently restructured as a fully autonomous Public Legal Entity. It serves as the national independent regulator responsible for safety oversight, economic regulation of airports, and passenger rights.

  • Hellenic Air Navigation Service Provider (HASP): The operational arm responsible for Air Traffic Management (ATM) and Communication, Navigation, and Surveillance (CNS) services within the Athens Flight Information Region (FIR).

  • The Ministry of Infrastructure and Transport: Provides high-level policy direction and oversees the strategic "Seven Pillar" modernization plan aimed at upgrading Greek aviation technology by the end of 2026.

1.2 National & International Legislation

  • Law 5160/2024 & 2025 Reforms: The latest legislative updates that granted the HCAA financial and administrative independence, detaching it from the central government budget to allow for faster modernization.

  • EU Regulation 2018/1139: The "Basic Regulation" that integrates Greek law with the European Union Aviation Safety Agency (EASA) standards.

  • Single European Sky (SES) Compliance: Ongoing legal mandates ensuring that Greek airspace integrates seamlessly with the rest of Europe to reduce flight delays and CO₂ emissions.

1.3 Public Service Obligations (PSO) – "The Barren Lines"

A cornerstone of Greek aviation law is the protection of island connectivity.

  • The Legal Mandate: Under EU Regulation 1008/2008, the Greek state imposes PSOs on routes that are not commercially viable but are vital for the socio-economic development of remote islands (e.g., Kastellorizo, Leros, Astypalaia).

  • Exclusivity Tenders: These routes are awarded via public tender to specific carriers (typically Aegean/Olympic or Sky Express) for 4-year periods, ensuring guaranteed frequencies and capped ticket prices for residents.

1.4 Environmental, Security & Health Regulations

  • ReFuelEU Aviation (2025-2026): New mandates requiring fuel suppliers at Greek airports to blend increasing percentages of Sustainable Aviation Fuel (SAF), starting at 2% in 2025.

  • National Civil Aviation Security Program (NCASP): The legal framework for airport security, which now includes specific Cyber Security mandates (NIS2 Directive) to protect airport infrastructure from digital threats.

  • Health & Bio-Security (AIC 03/25): Recent 2025/26 regulations regarding "Aircraft Disinsection," requiring specific health certifications for flights arriving from high-risk mosquito-borne disease zones.

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