Following the completion of an exceptional 19-year tenure at the helm of Athens International Airport (AIA), Yiannis Paraschis has decided to conclude this professional chapter on January 31st, 2026, upon the conclusion of his term of service.
At its meeting on October 31st, 2025, following the relevant proposal by the majority shareholder AviAlliance and the recommendation by the competent bodies of the company in accordance with corporate governance rules, the Board of Directors unanimously decided to appoint George Kallimasias, Chief Strategy Officer of the company, as the Managing Director (CEO) of AIA, effective as of February 1st, 2026.
According to information, it was a personal decision by Yannis Paraskevas to leave the position, and he proposed Mr. G. Kallimasias as his successor.
Yiannis Paraschis has been with AIA since 1996 and is the longest-serving CEO in the airport’s history. He is one of the most distinguished figures in the international aviation industry. Under his leadership, AIA has grown into a leading European airport, serving 34 million passengers this year, while achieving outstanding operational and financial results. His achievements include advancing AIA as a successful model of public-private partnership, effectively guiding the company through multiple crises such as the Greek economic downturn and the pandemic, securing a 20-year extension of the concession period, listing the company on the Athens Exchange, implementing an innovative sustainability strategy, and designing and launching the construction of the next phase of the airport’s expansion.
Mr. Paraschis has instilled a corporate culture built on cooperation and transparency, creating an environment in which company employees and members of the aviation community are the top priority. His leadership has built a strong institutional, social, and corporate legacy, enabling AIA to become a key driver of growth and employment in the Greek economy. He has also imbued AIA with a commitment to sustainable development. At an international level, he has held prominent roles in the global aviation community, serving as the President of the International Council of European Airports (ACI EUROPE) and the Airports Council International (ACI World), promoting AIA internationally and strengthening Greece’s position as a major aviation hub. After concluding his tenure as Managing Director (CEO), Yiannis Paraschis intends to continue to support AIA as a strategic advisor and to also serve on the Board of Directors of World Airport Partners (WAP), which manages airport investments for the Canadian Public Sector Pension Investment fund (PSP).
George Kallimasias’s resume
George Kallimasias has been part of AIA’s management since 1999. He has deep knowledge of the organization and the aviation sector and has made significant contributions to AIA’s major strategic initiatives. He has been the Chief Strategy Officer since 2019, and has led landmark projects including the 20-year extension of the concession period, AIA’s successful listing on the Athens Exchange, the enhancement of corporate governance, and the advancement of investment plans for the sustainable expansion and upgrade of the airport’s infrastructure. Upon assuming his new duties, the new CEO will lead AIA into the next chapter of growth and development, focusing on maintaining its leading international position, achieving business and operational excellence and further enhancing the airport’s contribution to the national economy as a key driver of growth in aviation, tourism, and the country’s connectivity. The appointment of Mr. George Kallimasias reflects the continuity of AIA’s successful management team, confidence in the company’s human capital and trust in the future growth and success of Athens International Airport.
Statements
The Chairman of the Board of Directors of AIA, Michail Kefalogiannis, stated: “The decision of our Board of Directors marks an important and positive milestone for Athens International Airport and its shareholders. The Board expresses its deep gratitude to Yiannis Paraschis for his long-standing and outstanding contribution, which has shaped AIA into one of the most successful and distinguished aviation hubs internationally, and the joint intention for him to remain at the company’s side is particularly positive. At the same time, we express our confidence in George Kallimasias who has demonstrated an outstanding professional development with our company for many years and we look forward to a successful career in his new duties. We are proud of AIA’s management team, which continues to ensure continuity, progress, and sustainable development for the airport’s future.”
Reflecting on his tenure, Yiannis Paraschis said: “It has been a tremendous honor and a great responsibility to lead such an important organization as Athens International Airport which plays a significant role for the country, society, and the economy. I am proud of everything we have achieved together with the management team and employees of AIA. I conclude my term as Managing Director filled with valuable experiences, positive feelings, and optimism for the future, knowing that George Kallimasias will continue the dynamic progress of our airport, leading it into a new era of growth. AIA is much more than an airport— it is a vibrant organization of growth and outreach through a team of people who make a difference every day”.
Commenting on his appointment, George Kallimasias stated: “It is with a deep sense of responsibility and honor that I assume the role of Managing Director of Athens International Airport at a pivotal moment for the company and the aviation industry. My goal is to lead AIA into a new era of growth and development, maintaining its international leadership, enhancing its contribution to the Greek economy, with a vision of an airport that stands as a model of sustainability, innovation, and human experience. With great appreciation for the work of Yiannis Paraschis and with confidence in the people of AIA—the employees, management team, and the wider airport community—we are advancing together, with faith in our capabilities and a clear vision for the future. I sincerely thank the Board of Directors and the shareholders for their trust. I am committed to continuing with consistency, cooperation, and inspiration, the successful course of AIA and to promoting Athens Airport as a reference for excellence, sustainable development, and global connectivity”.
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