
Zela Aviation partners with Syros Airport, Greece
Zela Aviation, in collaboration with Syros Airport, announces the arrival of the first direct flight of the summer season 2025 from Thessaloniki (SKG) to Syros (JSY), operated by Aegean Airlines. This flight scheduled for June 3, 2025, marks a significant step towards enhancing connectivity and promoting tourism on the Cycladic island of Syros.
The inaugural flight will be operated by an ATR 72 aircraft, offering passengers a comfortable and efficient travel experience. This route reflects Zela Aviation's commitment to expanding Syros Airport's network and establishing it as a key gateway to the Cyclades.
Zela Aviation, renowned for its expertise in aviation services, began its partnership with Syros Airport in December 2024. Since then, the company has been actively working to attract new carriers and increase the airport's traffic. The introduction of the Thessaloniki-Syros route is the first step in a broader strategy to enhance Syros' accessibility and stimulate local economic growth.
Syros Airport, with its strategic location and modern infrastructure, is perfectly positioned to accommodate increased air traffic. This new flight route will offer greater convenience for travelers, making Syros more accessible to visitors from Northern Greece and the Balkan region .
Zela Aviation's Chairman, Andreas Christodoulides, stated: 'We are proud to support Syros Airport in its journey to expand and thrive. This first flight is a testament to our commitment to driving growth, boosting tourism, and improving air connectivity to this stunning Cycladic island. We look forward to further collaborations and new routes in the future.'
Syros Airport (IATA code: JSY) is located on the island of Syros in the Cyclades, Greece. It serves as a vital hub for both domestic and international travel, offering modern facilities and a commitment to excellent service. With its growing network, Syros Airport is set to become a key gateway to the Cycladic islands.
Founded in 2006, Zela Aviation is a leading aviation company specializing in aircraft chartering, leasing, and airport development. With offices in Greece, Cyprus, and the UK, Zela Aviation partners with airports and airlines to enhance connectivity and promote tourism.
Hashtags

Try Our AI Features
Explore what Daily8 AI can do for you:
Comments
No comments yet...
Related Articles


Travel Daily News
18-06-2025
- Travel Daily News
Air connectivity at the heart of Europe's growth strategy, says ACI Europe Director General in Athens
Olivier Jankovec of ACI Europe highlights air connectivity's economic and social impact in a press briefing ahead of ACI Europe's 2025 Congress & General Assembly in Athens, Greece. Air connectivity plays a vital role in Europe's economic resilience, social cohesion, and sustainable development, according to Olivier Jankovec, Director General of ACI Europe. Speaking during a dedicated press conference for Greek media on 17 June 2025, ahead of ACI Europe's Annual Congress & General Assembly (18–20 June), Jankovec offered a preview of the key findings and strategic messages that will shape the upcoming deliberations in Athens. Addressing the media at the start of one of the industry's most influential gatherings, Jankovec underscored how air connectivity remains underestimated in regulatory and policy frameworks, despite being a major driver of prosperity across the continent. 'We often overlook the true value of air connectivity,' said Jankovec. 'Yet it is what physically unites Europeans, directly enabling GDP growth, employment, and access to global opportunities.' Air connectivity's economic multiplier effect Jankovec presented highlights from ACI Europe's forthcoming Airport Industry Connectivity Report 2025, a data-driven analysis of direct, indirect, and hub connectivity trends across Europe's airport network. Although passenger traffic has almost fully rebounded from the pandemic, air connectivity remains approximately 9% below 2019 levels. The report quantifies the link between increased air connectivity and economic growth: a 10% rise in direct connectivity translates to a 0.5% increase in GDP per capita and a 1.6% increase in employment—a compelling argument for policymakers to prioritize aviation infrastructure and route development strategies. The broader aviation sector contributes around 5% to Europe's GDP, equating to approximately €551 billion, and supports 6% of the continent's workforce. However, Jankovec warned that these figures could stagnate or decline without concerted efforts to restore and expand air connectivity post-COVID. A bridge to sustainable development Jankovec also shared findings from ACI Europe's joint economic and social impact study with the European Commission, released in Brussels in October 2024. The research demonstrates a significant correlation between air connectivity and the United Nations Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs), including: Poverty reduction Quality education Gender equality Innovation and research Life satisfaction and wellbeing 'People today are shifting from material to experiential consumption,' Jankovec noted. 'Travel—and by extension, air connectivity—delivers life satisfaction, equity in opportunity, and access to culture and education.' Greece leads Europe in air connectivity recovery While many European countries are still below 2019 air connectivity benchmarks, Greece has emerged as a frontrunner. The country leads ACI Europe's rankings for recovery, with air connectivity now 35% above pre-pandemic levels. This performance is closely tied to Greece's robust tourism rebound and proactive route development strategies. Athens International Airport has played a key role, achieving: +33% growth in total air connectivity compared to 2019 +24% growth in direct connectivity A 92% increase in hub connectivity, one of the strongest in Europe These figures elevate Athens Airport's status from 20th to 10th in direct connectivity and from 22nd to 12th in hub connectivity among European airports. 'This success is the result of strategic engagement,' said Jankovec. 'Airports today must actively market their destinations and compete for airline capacity. It's a constant battle for visibility and investment.' Market trends and future challenges Jankovec also addressed the structural shift in Europe's airline industry. Since the pandemic, low-cost carriers (LCCs) have expanded their presence, whereas full-service carriers (FSCs) have retrenched, with some—like the Lufthansa Group—still operating below 2019 capacity levels. This trend has implications for indirect connectivity, often delivered via FSC hub networks. The decline in hub capacity contributes to the lag in total connectivity recovery, particularly in secondary and regional airports. ACI Europe's report uses KPIs developed by Amsterdam Economics to track four types of connectivity: Direct connectivity Indirect connectivity Hub connectivity Total connectivity (a combination of the above) 'Indirect connectivity is as crucial as direct routes,' added Jankovec. 'A reduction in hub networks limits access to long-haul destinations and weakens the competitiveness of Europe's airports.' Strategic positioning ahead of the future As the ACI Europe Congress begins in Athens, the central message is clear: air connectivity must be treated as a strategic asset for Europe's future. With Greece exemplifying best practices, the industry must collaborate across borders and sectors to ensure that aviation remains a catalyst for progress, not just a facilitator of tourism. ACI Europe is urging regulators, governments, and industry stakeholders to view aviation beyond environmental concerns, acknowledging its integral role in enabling mobility, cohesion, and opportunity across the European continent. Jankovec concluded his briefing by inviting delegates and media to engage with ACI's upcoming reports and discussions during the Congress, which will feature sessions on investment, sustainability, technology, and route development.


Travel Daily News
13-06-2025
- Travel Daily News
JW Marriott debuts in Greece with JW Marriott Crete Resort & Spa
JW Marriott opens its first Greek resort in Crete, blending sustainable luxury, local culture, and wellness-focused experiences on the island's stunning coastline. JW Marriott, part of Marriott Bonvoy's portfolio of over 30 extraordinary hotel brands, announced the opening of JW Marriott Crete Resort & Spa, the brand's first highly anticipated Mediterranean beach resort, setting a new benchmark for luxury hospitality on the island. The resort features 160 elegantly appointed guest rooms, suites, and villas, all offering sweeping views of the Aegean Sea, with the majority including private pools to enhance the sense of exclusivity and relaxation. Nestled in Marathi, near the charming town of Chania, the resort spans over 100 acres of idyllic coastline, thoughtfully designed to harmonize with Crete's natural beauty and rich cultural heritage. 'The opening of JW Marriott Crete Resort & Spa marks a milestone moment for the brand with its entrance into Greece,' says Bruce Rohr, Vice President and Global Brand Leader, JW Marriott. 'This extraordinary property captures the essence of the JW Marriott brand, pairing warm, intuitive service with serene, thoughtfully designed spaces that invite guests to be present and truly connect. Crete's timeless beauty and heritage make it an inspiring setting for the brand's first property in the country, and we look forward to welcoming guests to experience our signature approach to hospitality and well-being on this iconic island.' With its natural surroundings, artful design, and immersive guest experiences, JW Marriott Crete Resort & Spa combines carefully curated design with experiences that reflect the authentic spirit and culture of the island. Architecture in Dialogue with Nature Crafted by the acclaimed Athens-based studio Block722, JW Marriott Crete Resort & Spa embodies contemporary elegance rooted in a deep respect for its natural surroundings. Set along one of Greece's most breathtaking coastlines, the resort is harmoniously integrated into the landscape with planted roofs, olive and carob tree groves, and natural materials including marble and wood. Each thoughtfully selected design element reflects a commitment to allowing the environment to guide the architecture, creating a seamless connection between nature and modern luxury. Each guest room boasts wide windows framing sweeping panoramic views of the Aegean Sea, while shaded terraces and private pools encourage a quiet connection with the sea and sky. Inside, the aesthetic is calm and tactile: soft, organic lines and a palette of earthy Mediterranean tones, including terracotta, olive, sand, and stone, create a sense of effortless harmony. Sculptural lighting and handcrafted ceramic decorative pieces subtly nod to Crete's traditional forms, reinterpreted with a contemporary eye. The resort has been thoughtfully constructed with sustainability at its core, from geothermal and solar energy systems to heat recovery from air conditioning for hot water, and the use of treated gray water for irrigation. This commitment to environmental responsibility has guided every aspect of the resort's development, resulting in a destination that not only seamlessly blends with its surroundings, but is also deeply shaped by them. A Celebration of Gastronomy and Mixology At JW Marriott Crete Resort & Spa, culinary artistry takes center stage across six distinctive dining venues, each carefully designed to celebrate local ingredients and seasonal flavors. Anchoring the resort's culinary philosophy is the JW Garden, a signature element of JW Marriott properties around the world that showcases the brand's commitment to well-being and sustainability. This meticulously managed garden cultivates fresh herbs and vegetables, such as thyme, oregano, and capers, which are integrated into dishes and cocktails across the resort, enhancing flavor and connecting guests with nature. Among the standout venues is ANOEE, a Cretan open-fire restaurant led by acclaimed chef Manolis Papoutsakis, known for using the island's traditional techniques and locally foraged ingredients. Õnalos presents a refined sea-to-table concept, highlighting the best of the Aegean Sea. Cuccagna delivers rustic Italian dishes with a contemporary touch, while Fayi serves Mediterranean style sharing plates in a warm, convivial setting. For more relaxed moments, Suncti by the Pooland Eēxis serve wine, cocktails, and light dishes in serene surroundings. In collaboration with Line Athens, ranked No. 6 in The World's 50 Best Bars, the resort also features a bespoke mixology program built around Cretan botanicals and herbs from the JW Garden, combining local essences with modern techniques. The resort is also home to Europe's first JW Market, a vibrant café-retail concept that reflects the brand's commitment to well-being and authenticity. Offering locally sourced, passionately crafted products, the JW Market is a fresh, inviting space where nourishment, design, and discovery come together in harmony. A Sanctuary of Discovery, Wellness, and Togetherness At the heart of the resort's wellness offering is ANOSEAS Spa, which combines traditional Cretan healing rituals with modern immersive therapies. The spa includes five treatment rooms, hydrotherapy experiences, and a beauty room. Additional wellness facilities include a yoga deck and four swimming pools with panoramic sea views, as well as a state-of-the-art fitness center. For families, JW Marriott Crete Resort & Spa delivers rich, multi-generational luxury experiences thoughtfully tailored to younger guests. The Phestos Den, powered by Worldwide Kids, offers an inspiring environment for cultural discovery, hands-on learning, and creative play. Outdoor areas offer shaded tents, imaginative play zones, and a dedicated vegetable garden, all designed to foster curiosity and a connection to nature. Beyond the resort, families can enjoy bespoke sea-based adventures or curated cultural excursions to local monasteries and archaeological sites, immersive journeys that bring Crete's vibrant traditions and heritage to life.


Travel Daily News
13-06-2025
- Travel Daily News
Visit Panama City Beach announces executive promotions
Vicky is the co-founder of TravelDailyNews Media Network where she is the Editor-in Chief. She is also responsible for the daily operation and the financial policy. She holds a Bachelor's degree in Tourism Business Administration from the Technical University of Athens and a Master in Business Administration (MBA) from the University of Wales. She has many years of both academic and industrial experience within the travel industry. She has written/edited numerous articles in various tourism magazines.