Greece, Athens plans to cut airport tax

Greek Development Ministry is drawing up a policy paper that will include a strategy for the reduction of airport taxes, a key demand of the tourism and air transport sector in Greece. The issue, as daily Kathimerini reports, was the focus of talks on Monday between Development Minister Costis Hatzidakis and the head of the Association of Hellenic Tourism Enterprises (SETE), Andreas Andreadis, along with SETE board members. The strategy framework on air transport is expected to be ready by the end of October, following consultations with the groups concerned. Infrastructure improvements are also planned for the coming months at the countrys airports. A bill within 2012 will provide for the split of the commercial arm from the regulatory competences of the Civil Aviation Authority.