Transforming data into strategic intelligence, evidence-based decisions, and sustainable growth.
3rd Place among 10 finalist teams
Recognised as a member of an interdisciplinary team for an innovative proposal supporting the vision and development of the New Heraklion International Airport in Crete.
The distinction highlights the role of research, innovation and interdisciplinary collaboration in shaping the future of aviation and sustainable airport development.
Organised by
Heraklion International Airport, Crete and Bizrupt
Research Area
Aviation Data Analytics, Innovation & Airport Sustainability
Team
Dr Evangelia Pantelaki, Dr Manolis Karachalios, Dr Elen P. Paraschi, Dr. Konstantinos N. Malagas and PhD(c) Dimitris Zopounidis.
Award of Excellence | SkyImpact Challenge 2026
Dimitris Zopounidis is a PhD Candidate at the Data Science Laboratory - DS Lab of the Technical University of Crete, Researcher on strategic proejcts carried out in collaboration with Alpha Bank and Founder of the Crete Aviation Observatory (CAO). His work lies at the intersection of Business Analytics, Artificial Intelligence, Strategic Intelligence, Banking Research, Financial and Aviation Analytics, focusing on the transformation of data into knowledge, data-driven decision-making, evidence-based policymaking, and sustainable growth.
Researcher
Researcher on Alpha Bank High-Impact Strategic Projects
He is the lead researcher on a project with Alpha Bank focusing on AI Risk Management Methodologies and Framework in alignment with the EU AI Act.
He is also Researcher of a large-scale Data-Driven Strategic Intelligence and Data-to-Decision Analytics Study developed in collaboration with Alpha Bank to support evidence-based strategy and decision-making.
Additionally, he contributes to the establishment and strengthening of the strategic relationship between Alpha Bank and the Technical University of Crete through collaborative initiatives and support activities related to the Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) between the two organizations.
Dimitris Zopounidis with Alpha Bank CEO Dr. Vassilios Psaltis
Economist Impact Conference • Chania | 29 May 2026
Official Alpha Bank Statement
Alpha Bank officially announced the launch of an independent study on Crete’s development model towards 2035, highlighting the role of data-driven analysis in supporting evidence-based strategy, regional planning and long-term economic development.
View Official StatementMemorandum of Understanding (MoU)
Alpha Bank and the Technical University of Crete signed a Memorandum of Understanding establishing a strategic framework for collaboration in research, innovation and other initiatives.
View Official Press Release
Founder & Research Head
Founder and Head of Research
Leading primary data analysis and research on the Mediterranean aviation sector and destination air connectivity. For the Crete Aviation Observatory (CAO) presentation deck, please contact: dzopounidis [at] tuc.gr
CAO Field Research at Chania International Airport ©
Primary Data Collection | Aviation Analytics
Published Scientific Book | Co-authored with Prof. Constantin Zopounidis & Assistant Professor Angelos Kostis
View Publication
