The Hellenic Aviation Authority is modernizing with a new Data Link Services system

A significant step towards the digital transformation of Greek air navigation services was taken with the signing of contract 33/2025, which concerns the supply and installation of the Air Navigation Data Link Services (DLS) System. The contract was signed between the Ministry of Infrastructure and Transport and the company SSA High Technologies S.A., which was awarded the contract in the relevant open tender.

The project, with a budget of 5,124,151 euros, is co-financed by the Public Investment Development Program (PID) 2025 and is expected to be completed within eight months of the signing of the contract. Its implementation will enhance the efficiency and safety of flights in Greek airspace, offering a more modern and reliable technological basis for communication between pilots and air traffic controllers.

What is the Data Link Services (DLS) system?

DLS is an advanced communication technology that uses a data link instead of traditional voice commands between the cockpit and ground control stations. Through this system, critical flight information, such as flight instructions and course changes, is sent with greater accuracy, speed, and safety, minimizing the risk of misinterpretation or delays.

DLS technology also enhances the interoperability of flight control systems between EU member states, offering a unified communication standard required by the European Union in the context of the harmonization of air navigation policy.

Meeting European obligations and strategic modernization

The implementation of the project responds to a chronic deficit in the Greek air traffic control system. According to the European regulatory framework, the provision of Data Link services should have been implemented by 2018. This delay had brought the country face to face with violations and criticism from the European authorities. With the activation of the system, Greece is now aligned with the requirements of the Single European Sky, covering a significant technological and institutional gap.

The Hellenic Civil Aviation Authority (HCAA), with this contract, confirms its strategic goal of modernizing the services it provides, prioritizing the upgrading of safety, reliability and efficiency in the air traffic sector. At the same time, the competitiveness of Greek air transport and the passenger experience are enhanced, through faster and safer flight procedures.

An upgrade that affects the entire aviation community

The new DLS system will operate in conjunction with other air traffic management systems, creating a unified and more efficient communication and control framework. Air carriers will benefit from reduced delay times and increased accuracy in flight instructions, while passengers will enjoy greater consistency and safety in their travels.

SSA High-Tech Industrial and Technical S.A., which undertook the implementation of the project, has experience in the installation of innovative high-tech systems and is expected to proceed quickly with the delivery of the project, guided by strict adherence to specifications and the schedule.

Next steps

The installation and operation of the DLS will be closely monitored by the Hellenic Aviation Authority and the co-competent European authorities, in order to ensure full compliance with international standards and its integration into the European air navigation network. The project is part of a broader effort to reform the infrastructure of the Greek Civil Aviation, with the ultimate goal of creating a modern, sustainable, and competitive framework for the provision of flight services.

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