The new airport in the Greek capital is operated by Athens International Airport S.A. (AIA), in which HOCHTIEF AirPort/HTAC has a stake of just under 40 percent. The airport went into operation at the end of March 2001.

In December 2002 - several months before airport service began - an audit team awarded the environmental management system, implemented by AIA's Environment & Quality Services department, DIN EN ISO 14001 certification. In December 2003, after thorough examination, the certification was successfully extended till January 2007.

Under this environmental management system, every company operating on the airport premises is required to comply with environmental regulations. The Environment & Quality Services department's work also encompasses:

• Monitoring air quality
• Monitoring and reducing aviation noise levels
• Monitoring the groundwater quality
• Waste and water management
• Monitoring and controlling bird activity
• Conducting environmental audits
• Protecting and showcasing the region's cultural heritage
• Carrying out specific EU projects
• Promoting environmental awareness among the general public