Athens International Airport won its 6th Routes award for the financial support and innovative airport marketing programmes offered to airlines. During the «ROUTES Europe» conference that took place in Toulouse during May 9-11, Athens International Airport (AIA) was awarded as the winner in the “Mediterranean-Southern Europe” category. AIA’s latest airport marketing award, which reflects the standing, fruitful relationship established with its airline partners, is of special significance due to the ongoing adverse economic situation. In 2010, Athens International Airport welcomes 5 new airlines launching services to/from new destinations: Air Canada (Montreal & Toronto), Air Transat (Vancouver), Croatia Airlines (Zagreb), Estonian Air (Tallinn), and Transaero (St. Petersburg), while Hellenic Imperial launches a new service to Johannesburg. Furthermore, several additional frequencies to already existing destinations will be available during the summer period. “This is a very special award for us, as it reflects our airline partners’ recognition of Athens International Airport’s active support in airline development even during dire times”, said Yiannis Paraschis, CEO of Athens International Airport S.A. “We are very happy for the international recognition of AIA’s planning and implementation of innovative incentives schemes and airport marketing programmes. We would like to thank our airline partners for rewarding our airport’s strategic approach and shall continue our support in the same spirit.”