The Daily Baku
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Blackout in Greek Airspace Raises Alarm Over Ageing Aviation Systems
January 6, 2026
18:05
A sudden communications failure plunged Greek airspace into chaos for several hours on Sunday, forcing authorities to suspend flights nationwide and reviving concerns over outdated aviation infrastructure. Air traffic controllers at Athens airport lost radio contact with most aircraft, hearing only a high-pitched signal instead of pilot responses. Internet-based systems also failed, leaving officials to communicate by phone.
“The Daily Baku” reports that, the disruption affected airports across Greece, stranding thousands of passengers. While officials ruled out a cyberattack, the exact cause remains unknown. Controllers said systems were not repaired but inexplicably returned to normal, raising safety concerns.
Unable to maintain secure communications, Greece halted all flights entering or crossing its airspace—an unprecedented move. Neighbouring countries assisted by coordinating traffic via telephone.
Experts warn that the incident highlights long-standing weaknesses caused by underinvestment following Greece’s debt crisis. Although the government insists current systems meet EU standards and modernization is planned by 2028, critics argue reforms are moving too slowly. Aviation unions stress that safety depended on human skill rather than reliable technology, a situation they say is unsustainable amid rising air traffic and persistent staff shortages.
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