How many new OASA bus lines are being introduced?
Five additional standard bus lines will be integrated into the OASA network effective October 1, 2026. This move expands the existing program of high-frequency 'standard lines' from 15 to 20 routes. The primary objective of this expansion is to decrease passenger wait times and increase the frequency of scheduled trips across the Athenian metropolitan area.
The decision to move into this second phase of the program follows measurable success in the initial rollout. According to the Ministry of Infrastructure and Transport, the original 15 standard lines achieved a 13.6% reduction in peak-hour intervals during the first six months of 2026 compared to the same period in 2025. By adding five more routes, the transit authority intends to replicate these efficiency gains across a broader geographic footprint.
Operational Goals and Frequency Targets
The core promise of the expanded program is reliability. For the new routes, OASA has committed to ensuring that intervals between buses during peak hours do not exceed 12 minutes. To achieve this, the organization is deploying additional vehicles specifically assigned to these lines, ensuring that the increased frequency is sustainable even during high-demand periods.
Which specific routes are included in the October expansion?
The second phase of the program introduces five distinct routes designed to serve different sectors of the city. These routes are categorized as 'standard lines,' meaning they will benefit from the enhanced frequency and dedicated vehicle support mentioned above. The new routes are as follows:
- Route 051: Kifisou Bus Station – Omonoia, via Akademia Platonos (circular).
- Route 214: Zoodochos Pigi – Akademia (circular).
- Route 732: Ilion – Agios Fanourios – Akademia (circular).
- Route 822: Agios Antonios Station – Nea Zoi (circular).
- Route A15: Larissis Station – Dasos.
These routes have been selected to improve connectivity in areas that have previously experienced longer wait times or less frequent service. By implementing circular patterns in several of these routes, OASA aims to provide more consistent coverage within specific neighborhoods while maintaining links to major transit hubs like Omonoia and Larissis Station.
What is the expected impact on Athenian commuters?
Commuters can expect a significant shift in how they navigate the city, as approximately 50% of all passengers are expected to travel via these standard bus lines following the expansion. Antonis Kerastaris, the CEO of OASA, noted that the expansion would bring the majority of the passenger base under the umbrella of the high-frequency service model.
The impact is twofold: improved efficiency for individual travelers and a more robust network for the city at large. For the individual, the reduction in waiting times directly translates to more predictable daily schedules. For the city, the increased capacity on these key lines helps alleviate congestion on the broader road network by making public transit a more viable alternative to private vehicle use.
The role of the Ministry in transit upgrades
The Ministry of Infrastructure and Transport has framed these changes as part of a larger strategic effort to modernize urban mobility. Deputy Minister Giorgos Kotshiras stated that reducing wait times on high-traffic lines is a direct result of efforts to upgrade urban transport systems. The Ministry's approach focuses on measurable results, such as the 13.6% reduction in wait times seen in the first half of 2026, to justify continued investment in the network.
Which routes are already part of the standard line program?
Before the October 1 expansion, 15 routes were already operating under the standard line protocol. These existing routes serve a wide variety of corridors, ranging from Piraeus to Kifisia, ensuring that the benefits of high-frequency service are already distributed across much of the metropolitan area. The current list includes:
| Route Number | Primary Path / Connection |
|---|---|
| 3 | Nea Filadelfia – Ano Patisia – Neo Psychiko |
| 5 | Lambrini – Syntagma – Tzitzifies |
| 14 | Lambrini – Alexandras Ave – Gerokomeio |
| 040 | Piraeus – Syntagma |
| 224 | Kaisariani – Eleftheriou Venizelou |
| 550 | Palaio Faliro – Kifisia |
| 608 | Galatsi – Akademia – Zografou Cemetery |
| 703 | Piraeus – Agioi Anargyroi – Agios Eleftherios |
| 843 | Piraeus – Perama |
| A2 | Akademia – Voula (via Amfitheas Ave) |
| A5 | Akademia – Agia Paraskevi – Anthousa |
| A7 | Stournari – Kifisia (Platia Platano) |
| A8 | Polytechnio – Nea Ionia – Marousi |
| A13 | Omonoia – Kipoupoli |
| B5 | Larissis Station – Alexandras Ave – Agia Paraskevi |
How has the broader transit network changed recently?
The expansion of the bus lines is part of a wider series of adjustments to the Athens transit system. On September 11, 2024, the commencement of the winter schedule led to modifications in the frequencies of fixed-track transport, including the Metro, Electric rail, and Tram. These changes were specifically targeted at peak hours to better manage passenger flow during the seasonal shift.
A notable example of these improvements can be seen in the Tram network. Specifically, Line 6 of the Tram now operates with a frequency of 7 minutes and 30 seconds, a significant improvement over the 9-minute frequency recorded in 2025. This indicates that the upgrades are not limited to the bus network but extend to the entire integrated public transport system in Athens.
FAQ: OASA bus lines
When do the five new bus lines start operating?
The five new standard bus lines are scheduled to begin their service on October 1, 2026. This date marks the official expansion of the OASA standard lines program from 15 to 20 total routes, aimed at improving urban connectivity.
What is the maximum expected wait time for the new routes?
During peak hours, the waiting time for the new standard bus lines is expected to not exceed 12 minutes. This frequency is maintained through the deployment of additional vehicles specifically assigned to these high-demand routes.
How much did wait times decrease in the first phase?
During the first half of 2026, the 15 original standard lines saw a 13.6% decrease in peak-hour waiting times compared to the same period in 2025. This data served as the basis for the decision to expand the program.
Which major hubs will the new routes connect?
The new routes will provide enhanced connections to several key hubs, including Omonoia, Larissis Station, and Kifisou Bus Station. These connections are designed to facilitate smoother transfers between different parts of the metropolitan area.
Is the improvement limited only to buses?
No, improvements have also been made to fixed-track transport. For example, Tram Line 6 has seen its peak-hour frequency improved from 9 minutes in 2025 to 7 minutes and 30 seconds following the recent winter schedule adjustments.
