Infrastructure and Transport Minister Christos Staikouras on Thursday attended the launch of a new, visitable tourist attraction at the site of the former Greek airport at Elliniko, where a historic Boeing B727/284 Mount Olympus aircraft – once part of the fleet of the “Olympic Airways” commercial airline founded by shipping tycoon Aristotelis Onassis – has been given a new lease of life as an exhibit.
“This imposing aircraft, as a tourist attraction, will showcase our country’s air travel heritage and be a landmark for the municipality. Because it is not just an exhibit but a living monument of the history of Greek air navigation,” Staikouras said in his address.
He highlighted the historical importance of the airline and air travel for the growth of the Greek economy and its tourism industry, noting that it was one of the first sectors to attract foreign investment after WWII.
The aircraft was one of six bought by Onassis at the end of the 1960s, while the exhibit was organised by Zela Aviation and the Elliniko-Argyroupoli municipality.
Staikouras congratulated all those involved and said the initiative will enhance the local tourism product and help the growth of the local economy, while also preserving Greece’s cultural heritage.
SOURCE; ANA-MPA
