Greek state hopes to sell its stake in the site of the old Athens airport to private developers . The vast plot of land is expected to host new commercial and residential space . The sprawling 64 million square foot plot ceased to operate as city 's main airport in 2001 when it was shuttered and replaced by Athens International to the east of the city . Greece has been struggling with a debt crisis for years, which led it to seek international aid from other European countries such as Germany and France. Others warn against selling off state assets to private developers on the cheap .
Greek state hopes to sell its stake in the site of the old Athens airport to private developers . The vast plot of land is expected to host new commercial and residential space . Greece has been struggling with a debt crisis for years, which led it to seek international aid from other European countries such as Germany and France. Others warn against selling off state assets to private developers on the cheap .