Infrastructure and Transport Minister Christos Dimas highlighted the importance of the new Kastelli International Airport being built on the island of Crete, in his statements on Friday at the ‘Greece Talks, Crete Forward: Experience, Culture & Connection’ conference taking place in Heraklion.

“The new international airport in Kastelli is by far the most beautiful airport in Greece and the most modern in the country,” Dimas said, while adding that the airport – one of the key infrastructure projects that are expected to reshape the island’s future – will become the most modern aviation gateway in Greece.

He added that its construction is almost at 70% completion, while an international tender for the installation of advanced air navigation systems is currently underway. The contract for this tender was signed about a month ago, he said, in the presence of Prime Minister Kyriakos Mitsotakis.

The minister also referred to the progress of the Northern Road Axis of Crete (BOAK), emphasizing that it represents the largest motorway project in Greece that remains outstanding.

“The BOAK is indeed the last major pending issue for the Greek state regarding motorway construction,” Dimas said. He also mentioned important road safety projects that have already been completed, along the section from Chania to Kolymbari and the section from Heraklion to Linoperamata.

According to the minister, these interventions are expected to significantly contribute to reducing road accidents and fatalities, which remains a major priority for the government.