Athens International Airport (AIA) opened in March 2001 and is a pioneer international Public-Private Partnership of its type, being the first major Greenfield airport constructed with the participation of the private sector. A €2.2 billion investment, the new airport was built in a record time of 51 months, replacing its congested predecessor and offering to all airlines and passengers a modern, spacious and state-of-the-art environment. Since its opening AIA has performed exceptionally well in terms of handling major events (Olympic and Paralympic Games of 2004, Champions League Final etc.). AIA has managed to earn international recognition, holding top positions in the world in Overall Passenger Satisfaction - in its airport size category - according to the IATA Global Airport Monitor and AETRA surveys. AIA can offer operational expertise and a real environment for the conduction of the operational tests.