Changes to the regulatory framework for seaplanes – Simplification of licensing procedures and fast-tracked remaining water airport licensing processes

The future of seaplanes and the development of the water airport network was discussed during a meeting between the Deputy Minister of Transport, Giannis Kefalogiannis, and Hellenic Seaplanes. This meeting left the company and investors optimistic about the imminent implementation, the simplification of licensing procedures for the construction and operation of water airports, and the restart of seaplane flights.

During the meeting, all the key issues that have concerned investors over the last few years regarding this new seaplane sector in Greece were addressed. The main topic of discussion was the improvement of the regulatory framework, simplifying the licensing process, removing the bureaucratic obstacles and delays from joint ministerial decisions (KYA), and restoring a favorable investment environment so that both the public and private sectors can contribute simultaneously to the development of the water airport network. The certification of water airport operational personnel was also discussed.

All the above will be completed by the end of August to be placed in public consultation in September. It is expected to be brought to parliament in October to quickly create the necessary infrastructure (water airports) throughout Greece before the 2020 tourist season and provide the necessary operational support to the seaplanes.

The Ministry of Transport, through Mr. Kefalogiannis, seems to be transitioning from words to action, proceeding with determination to complete all pending matters, improve the framework, and accelerate the licensing processes for the water airports network in Greece.

Mr. Kefalogiannis confirmed the political will of the government to support this activity, paving the way for licensing, highlighting the multiple benefits that the implementation of water airports will have on job creation, regional development, infrastructure and network growth, as well as its positive effects on tourism during this critical moment in Greece’s development.

During the meeting, the President and CEO of Hellenic Seaplanes, Mr. Nikolas Charalambous, briefed the Minister on the state of the seaplane sector, new investors, and Hellenic Seaplanes’ development strategy.

Deputy Minister Mr. Kefalogiannis, in a related statement, said: “Water airport projects are of utmost importance for the Greek economy and the national transport infrastructure network, as they can create a significant number of jobs, both directly and indirectly, contribute substantially to the connection and development of local communities, improve the country’s economy, and help overcome the isolation of small, mountainous, or remote islands where building traditional airports is not feasible, and where maritime links are difficult, especially during the winter months. The creation of water airports in certain islands of the country that lack traditional airports or regular transport services will provide significant emergency services, such as the transport of patients and essential goods. The Ministry of Transport has initiated all the appropriate actions to expedite the licensing of water airports and is in systematic communication with the other relevant services to overcome bureaucratic hurdles and resolve any issues.”

Mr. Kefalogiannis concluded by stating: “The Ministry of Transport is moving forward quickly to improve the regulatory framework, with the goal of launching a significant number of water airports as soon as possible, specifically by the upcoming summer tourist season of 2020. In doing so, we are putting into practice our support for this investment initiative, contributing significantly to the creation of the first sustainable water airport network and shaping a new developmental landscape in the country.”

Mr. Charalambous mentioned: “The creation of a water airport network and the development of seaplane transportation in Greece is now a given, and we will strive to cover all destinations across the country as soon as possible. Seaplanes will become a new, essential pillar of transportation continuity for our island communities. Their support is a necessary condition for exploiting the development potential of our country.” 

He continued: “We believe this summer will be the last without seaplanes, and we express our optimism that the seaplane and water airport sector, with the determination of the new government, is now on a path to implementation, boosting our hopes for the prompt start of our flight operations. Hellenic Seaplanes has already started the licensing process for water airports in many islands and coastal cities and will soon have developed a sustainable network of destinations and tourist routes. Additionally, we support the idea that seaplanes will play an important role in healthcare, especially in airlifting patients and supporting health tourism.”

Concluding, Mr. Charalambous said: “A great deal of valuable time has already been lost due to bureaucratic processes, incorrect policies, and the servicing of other interests… We have been delayed for the last five years, but the time for action has come…”