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Flight Chaos in Greece: Air Traffic Control Malfunction Grounds 75+ Flights

1/4/2026

Summary

Story summary

A malfunction in Greece's air traffic control communication systems caused a nationwide grounding of flights on January 4, 2026, at the Athens and Macedonia Area Control Centers.
The Hellenic Civil Aviation Authority (HCAA) confirmed that only airborne flights were managed initially.
More than 75 flights were delayed, and many were diverted to neighboring countries.
Authorities are investigating the cause and working to restore normal operations, with updates expected.

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Story summary

A malfunction in Greece's air traffic control communication systems caused a nationwide grounding of flights on January 4, 2026, at the Athens and Macedonia Area Control Centers.
The Hellenic Civil Aviation Authority (HCAA) confirmed that only airborne flights were managed initially.
More than 75 flights were delayed, and many were diverted to neighboring countries.
Authorities are investigating the cause and working to restore normal operations, with updates expected.