Water airports to start operating in summer, Deputy Transport Minister says

20:11 18/2/2014 - Πηγή: Matrix24

The first licences for the operation of water airports in Greece will be issued on Friday, Deputy Transport, Infrastructure and Networks Minister Michalis Papadopoulos said on Tuesday at an Economist conference in Thessaloniki, which is being held under the auspices of the Greek presidency of the EU.

Papadopoulos said that the completion

of the legislative framework opens the way for the issuance of permits, while the first flights are expected to start in early summer, improving coastal areas connectivity and acting as a growth engine for the islands, with knock-on benefits for the Greek economy.

He also underlined the need for Greece to exploit its geographical position and become a hub of European transports.

This requires the creation of modern infrastructure that would make the country more attractive to investments, while the strengthening of trade routes, the development of intermodal freight transport and logistics are also pivotal, he noted.

In this context, the institutional framework for the issuance of permits, the facility areas and the management of all complex issues with emphasis on simplification is delivered to all involving parties for consultation. «Our efforts are aimed at establishing a competitive environment and sustainable development,» he said.

source: ΑΜΝΑ