The Deputy Minister of Infrastructure and Transport, Nikos Tachiaos, visited the construction sites of the major projects currently underway on Crete (Kastelli Airport and BOAK) and met with local authorities and stakeholders on the island.
The aim is to complete major projects on the island on time
In the coming weeks, a significant milestone will be reached with the signing of the contract for the section of the New National Road linking Chania to Heraklion. This project has been a focal point in the region, promising to enhance connectivity and support local development.
The construction sites for these major works stand as a testament to the ongoing commitment to improving infrastructure in Crete.
With these developments, expectations are high for not only better transportation but also for the economic growth they will facilitate in the area.
The Signing of the Contract for the Chania – Heraklion Section of the North Road Axis in the Coming Weeks
During his recent tour of the Heraklion region, Mr. Tzachiaos announced that the contract for the Chania – Heraklion section of the Northern Road Axis of Crete (BOAK) will be signed within the coming weeks.
He mentioned that the outcome of the tender has been sent to the Court of Auditors, and they expect to receive the necessary approval shortly to proceed with the signing of the contract and its ratification by Parliament.
During this tour, the Deputy Minister met with the mayors of Heraklion, Alexis Kalokairinos, and Malevizi, Menelaos Bokeas.
Discussions focused on the bypass around Heraklion.
Mr. Tzachiaos expressed the goal of completing the bypasses of the three major cities along the project by 2026.
He highlighted that these bypass routes will have no tolls and will effectively serve the urban transportation needs of both residents and visitors.
The Deputy Minister emphasised that the Government aims to establish construction sites for the contracted section as soon as possible.
He stated that a close and continuous collaboration with local communities and authorities is essential for achieving this goal.
Mr. Tzachiaos reassured that there will be an opportunity for common ground with the municipalities.
He announced that further meetings will be held soon, involving himself and the Minister of Infrastructure and Transport, Mr. Dima, with representatives of local government to ensure the project proceeds without being hindered by lengthy legal disputes in the Council of State.
Mr. Tzachiaos highlighted the complexity of the project, noting that the primary focus of future discussions will be the mutual aim for its success.
He remarked that, as he has stated in the past, the viewpoints of the municipal authorities have valid reasoning. Therefore, it is crucial to reach a realistic and beneficial agreement for the citizens.
Visit to the BOAK construction sites and the airport
Mr. Tachiakos recently visited the ongoing works on the Northern Road Axis of Crete, specifically in the sections from Hersonissos to Neapolis and from Neapolis to Agios Nikolaos. He noted the significantly encouraging progress at these sites.
He stated, “We have very good signs regarding the progress of the Northern Road Axis, despite the challenges encountered in both the public-private partnerships and public works, as well as the upcoming concessions.”
Accompanying the Deputy Minister were the Regional Vice-Governor of Lasithi, Giannis Androulakis, and the Mayor of Agios Nikolaos, Manolis Menegakis.
During his tour, the Deputy Minister of Infrastructure also visited the construction site of the International Airport of Heraklion in Kastelli. He participated in a large meeting alongside the Regional Governor of Crete, Stavros Arnaoutakis, and the Mayor of Minoa Pediadas, Vassilis Kegkeroglou.
He expressed satisfaction with the remarkable progress made in both building and other related works. According to him, as soon as the Environmental Impact Study is released within April, an order will be given to commence work on the extensive tunnel to be constructed in Petrianos Lakkos, following the recommendations of local authorities.
Additionally, plans are underway for flood prevention works in the area, which will complement the airport, alongside connecting local communities to the airport’s biological treatment facility.
In a statement to the media, Mr. Tachiakos emphasised the need to address all outstanding issues of the major projects in Crete. He mentioned that this requires the swift mobilisation of substantial human and material resources, alongside significant financial commitments.
“We must proceed in an organised manner. Resources are limited, and the demands often exceed the needs. You should know that such large-scale projects, in such a concentrated manner, have not been executed before in Greece. It is not easy to simply open everything at once. All projects are being implemented in modular phases,” he explained.
At the Agios Nikolaos site, the Deputy Minister also met with the Mayor of Sitia, Giorgos Zervakis, who raised the matter of the eastern extension of the Northern Road Axis.
Concluding his visit to Crete, Mr. Tachiakos met with the Mayors of Faistos, Grigoris Nikolidis, along with other local leaders to discuss further developments and support for infrastructure needs in the region.
As construction progresses on these essential projects, it is crucial to understand the impact this infrastructure will have on the local economy and community.
Key Objectives of the BOAK Project
- Enhanced Connectivity: The BOAK is designed to connect major urban centres, improving access across the island.
- Traffic Relief: Bypass routes aim to alleviate congestion in urban areas, ensuring smoother traffic flow.
- Economic Development: Improved road infrastructure is expected to boost local economies by facilitating trade and tourism.
- Safety Improvements: The project includes enhancements to road safety standards, aiming to reduce accident rates.
Community Engagement and Collaboration
The project’s success hinges on effective collaboration with local authorities and community stakeholders. The government plans to:
- Conduct Regular Meetings: Continued dialogue with local leaders to address concerns and gather input.
- Share Project Updates: Keeping the community informed about progress and any changes to the project timeline.
- Addressing Community Needs: Ensuring that the infrastructure developed meets the requirements of local populations.
Progress of the New International Airport in Heraklion
The construction of the new international airport in Heraklion, Crete, is progressing rapidly.
Once completed, it is set to become one of the most modern airports in the Mediterranean region.
The heavy construction works are nearing completion, with the control tower expected to be finished by the end of spring.
While the pace of work is fast, the exact timeline for the airport’s opening remains uncertain.
This timeline heavily relies on the Civil Aviation Authority, which is responsible for the installation of the navigational systems.
The development of the airport is led by the Heraklion International Airport Company.
The stakeholders include the Greek public sector, holding 45.9%, GEK TERNA Group with 32.46%, and the Indian GMR Group at 21.64%. Construction is managed by TERNA S.A., part of the GEK TERNA Group.
Current Construction Status
The heavy construction works are almost complete on the project that spans 6,030 acres, with about 50% of the project implemented so far.
The control tower is projected to be finished by late spring, while the main terminal is progressing well in its construction phase.
Additionally, the paving of the runways and parking areas is ongoing, achieving approximately 60% completion.
The main structure of the terminal has been built with around 65,000 cubic metres of reinforced concrete.
Moreover, building and electrical works are currently in full swing. The construction of the new road connection to the airport is also at 60% completion.
The precise operational date for the airport will depend on how quickly the Civil Aviation Authority delivers and installs the navigational systems.
Alongside this, personnel training conducted by the Authority is necessary to ensure smooth functioning.
Airport Features
The new airport is designed to accommodate a high volume of traffic while ensuring modern facilities for travellers. Key features include:
- Runways: Designed for multiple aircraft to land and take off simultaneously.
- Terminal Space: A large and welcoming terminal will assist in managing passenger flow effectively.
- Parking Facilities: An ample amount of space for both short-term and long-term parking.
- Navigational Aid Systems: Essential for the safe management of air traffic.
- Environmental Considerations: Plans to integrate sustainable practices into its operations, aiming to reduce the airport’s ecological footprint.
As these developments continue to take shape, the local community is optimistic about the airport’s potential to boost tourism and enhance connectivity. This project is expected to play a significant role in transforming Heraklion into a major travel hub in the region.
Recent reports highlight that construction work is headed towards significant milestones, ensuring that this ambitious project comes to fruition in a timely manner, as indicated in articles about the ongoing progress.
This investment in infrastructure is a clear indication of the region’s commitment to improving its transportation capabilities and fostering economic growth. The new airport in Heraklion will serve not only local residents but also international visitors, thus promising to elevate the area’s profile on the global stage.
Key Economic Benefits
The completion of the new airport may lead to numerous economic advantages for the region, including:
- Job Creation: The construction and future operations will provide employment opportunities for many residents.
- Boost to Local Businesses: Increased tourist traffic is likely to benefit local shops, hospitality services, and restaurants.
- Infrastructure Development: Improved transportation will spur further investments in related infrastructure, enhancing convenience for residents and tourists alike.
- Increased Connectivity: Providing numerous flight options will facilitate travel and connect Crete with other destinations more efficiently.
With these benefits in mind, the airport project is not merely an infrastructure development; it is a strategic move to position Crete as a vital link in the Mediterranean travel network.
Future Considerations
As the airport construction nears completion, there are essential steps that need to be addressed:
- Training of Personnel: To ensure that staff are adequately prepared for operations, training sessions will be arranged soon.
- Regulatory Approvals: Before it can open, the airport must secure all necessary regulatory approvals from the Civil Aviation Authority.
- Public Engagement: Ongoing communication with the public will be vital to address any concerns and to share updates about the opening.
The new international airport is anticipated to bring a transformative change to Heraklion and can align with future regional growth strategies. As construction progresses, residents and future visitors remain hopeful about the airport’s potential impact.
Construction of the Selinari tunnel
N. Tachiaos, the Deputy Minister of Infrastructure and Transport, recently visited the construction site of the dual tunnel at Selinari. During his inspection, he acknowledged significant progress in the ongoing work. He was welcomed by Giannis Androulakis, the Deputy Regional Governor of Lassithi, along with Aristeidis Frouzakis, the project’s director.
Frouzakis provided a detailed update on the advancements and challenges encountered during the tunnelling process. The construction involves two teams drilling simultaneously—one from the east led by the contractor Akrotiri and another from the west by Terna.
Frouzakis estimated that the two teams should meet by the end of 2025. This milestone is crucial for the overall project timeline.
After inspecting the Selinari site, Tachiaos travelled to another worksite located two kilometres before the western entrance of Agios Nikolaos. Here, he received further updates concerning progress on a segment of the Northern Road Axis (ΒΟΑΚ).
He learned that resolving issues related to property expropriations remains critical. Much of the contract area stretches from two petrol stations to the Kritsa junction, involving land that is currently tied up in legal disputes with property owners due to expropriation issues.
Tachiaos also encountered local officials, including the Mayor of Agios Nikolaos, Manolis Menegakis, and other municipal representatives. They discussed the necessity of adhering to the Prime Minister’s commitment for the completion of the ΒΟΑΚ up to Sitia.
During these discussions, Androulakis highlighted the importance of leveraging the existing option concerning the old national road. He proposed integrating this into the project, which would require additional funding aimed at improving road connections between ΒΟΑΚ and Lakonia. Another consideration includes directly linking the Agios Nikolaos-Elounda bypass to the existing road plan, optimising a portion of the old national road in the process.
Tachiaos’s programme remained focused on ensuring that the ongoing undertakings receive the attention and resources necessary for successful completion. The ambition to expedite development in the region is palpable, reflecting the administration’s commitment to enhancing transport infrastructure despite existing hurdles.
The collaborative effort among officials, contractors, and local stakeholders showcases a unified approach to overcoming obstacles. This teamwork is crucial in ensuring that vital infrastructure projects not only progress smoothly but also meet the needs of local communities.
Progress of work to connect the new airport to BOAK
The circular junction at Hersonissos appears complete based on recent footage recorded on 5 April 2025. According to a new video from CreteByDrone, the asphalting has been finished, road signs have been installed, and the construction site is moving into its final phase. It is expected that the junction will be handed over within the current week, around 10 April.
The video captures the ongoing progress of the road connection project linking the new international airport of Heraklion in Kastelli to the North Road Axis of Crete (BOAK). The route begins from the Hersonissos junction and extends to the area of Xerokampos, where a double tunnel measuring 2,820 metres is planned for construction.
The video highlights several aspects, including the new layout of the roadway, completed technical works such as retaining walls, drainage systems, and bridges. It also includes updates on the environmental approach, emphasising the use of the NATM method for tunnel excavation, which involves controlled detonations.
Aerial views reveal how the new road integrates into the surrounding natural landscape, showcasing the progress made from March to the present. The video is accompanied by a voice-over narrative, providing viewers with comprehensive information on the status of the project.
For those interested in the ongoing developments, the new road is expected to significantly improve transportation to the new airport, making travel more accessible for both locals and visitors alike. The construction is part of a broader effort to modernise infrastructure in the region, highlighting the importance of effective planning and execution in such large-scale projects.
As the completion of the junction approaches, it is clear that there is a strong commitment to ensuring the project meets deadlines and quality standards. The detailed work captured in the video not only documents the physical changes taking place but also reflects the planning and effort behind the scenes.
The construction efforts have aimed to ensure minimal disruption to the environment while optimising the effectiveness of the road layout. The use of advanced construction techniques has been proposed to maintain the integrity of the natural surroundings. This consideration is crucial as it demonstrates a balance between progress and environmental stewardship.
Infrastructure projects of this scale require significant collaboration among various stakeholders, including local authorities, engineers, and environmental specialists. The integration of their expertise is essential for successfully navigating the complexities involved in construction near sensitive environments.
The following elements are central to the project:
- Completion of the Circular Junction: The progress indicates readiness for operational functionality.
- Asphalting and Signage: Essential components have been implemented, which are vital for road safety and direction.
- Tunnel Construction: Future developments will feature a double tunnel, a significant engineering undertaking.
- Environmental Strategies: Incorporating sustainable practices is critical to preserve the natural habitat.
The project is not merely about building roads; it represents a shift toward improved infrastructure that can support increased traffic and tourism. The Heraklion International Airport will soon have a direct connection to central areas of the island, creating a more seamless travel experience.
