AADE investigates helicopter companies for tax evasion

The Independent Authority for Public Revenue (AADE) has launched an investigation, dubbed Operation ‘Abnormal Landing’, targeting helicopter companies suspected of tax evasion. The probe was triggered by reports of helicopters landing in unauthorized areas across the Greek islands, including Melos and Spetses.

Investigators from the Financial Transactions Control Force (DEOS) are examining the ownership, management, and tax compliance of these aviation firms. By cross-referencing data from the Civil Aviation Authority and seeking administrative assistance from other EU member states, authorities have identified significant discrepancies.

In one instance, a helicopter registered in Greece but owned by a Cypriot company was found to have tax violations exceeding 300,000 euros. The investigation revealed inconsistencies between the actual commercial use of the aircraft—renting to third parties—and the reported tax documents. Additionally, a company involved in pilot training and transport reportedly concealed 25,000 euros in VAT in August alone.

A second case involves an Austrian-registered helicopter that landed in the Saronic Gulf. This aircraft belongs to an Austrian company with an operating entity based in the Attica region. Authorities are currently investigating the true nature of these transactions and the financial relationships between the involved parties to determine the full extent of tax evasion and potential penalties.