Greece is set to enter a new era of long-haul connectivity as Aegean Airlines confirms the launch of its first-ever direct flights to India. Beginning in March 2026, the Greek national carrier will operate nonstop flights from Athens to New Delhi, followed by direct services to Mumbai in May 2026. The move positions Aegean Airlines as the first Greek carrier to fly directly to India, signaling a milestone in the country’s aviation and tourism strategy.
The expansion is underpinned by the arrival of two ultra-long-range Airbus A321neo XLR aircraft, expected in December 2025 and January 2026. These aircraft mark a key turning point for Aegean’s operational capabilities, opening new travel corridors between Europe and Asia. They are part of the airline’s broader €4 billion ($4.3 billion) investment plan to grow its fleet and international footprint through 2031.
Athens to Become a Strategic European-Asian Gateway
The direct India routes will strengthen Athens International Airport’s role as a hub linking Southeast Europe with South Asia. According to Aegean executives, the New Delhi route will run five times weekly from March 2026, while the Mumbai route will operate three times weekly from May.
The expansion is not only aimed at leisure travelers but also business professionals and members of the Indian diaspora in Europe. Aegean is in talks with Indian carriers including IndiGo and Air India for interline and codeshare agreements, enabling smooth domestic transfers across India.
The Ministry of Tourism of Greece welcomed the development, calling it a “landmark moment in bilateral tourism and trade relations,” aligning with Visit Greece’s 2026 Asia strategy. The initiative is expected to boost inbound tourism from India—one of the fastest-growing source markets globally.
Aegean Bets on Airbus A321neo XLR for Long-Haul Growth
The new A321neo XLR aircraft are designed to fly up to 8,500 kilometers (approx. 10.5 hours), making them ideal for nonstop journeys between Athens and South Asia. Aegean’s configuration will include 24 lie-flat Business Class seats and 114 Economy Class seats outfitted with 4K screens, USB ports, and high-speed satellite Wi-Fi.
Passengers can expect upgraded cabin comfort, a modern IFE system, and spacious overhead bins, making the inflight experience comparable to that of full-service legacy carriers.
These aircraft give Aegean access to medium-to-long-haul destinations previously unreachable with its short-range fleet, allowing it to expand strategically into key markets like India, the Middle East, Central Asia, and East Africa.
India, Maldives, and Beyond: New Markets on the Horizon
Aegean Airlines has confirmed that it is reviewing more long-haul destinations including:
- Bangalore, India
- Nairobi, Kenya
- Malé, Maldives
- Almaty, Kazakhstan
- Lagos, Nigeria
- Seychelles
These routes align with emerging tourism and trade demand between Greece and key regions in Asia and Africa. However, the airline clarified that current XLR range limitations prevent nonstop services to North or South America—though this could change post-2027 depending on new aircraft acquisitions.
A €4 Billion Vision for the Future of Greek Aviation
With the latest fleet additions, Aegean will operate a total of 60 Airbus neo-family aircraft, 36 of which have already been delivered. The remaining 24 will arrive over the next six years, forming part of the airline’s comprehensive growth plan to modernize its fleet and expand internationally.
Company President Eftychios Vassilakis emphasized that this expansion is more than just about adding destinations. “It is about making Athens a pivotal transit hub between Europe, Asia, and Africa. With modern aircraft, better infrastructure, and a skilled team, we aim to place Greece firmly on the global aviation map.”
Economic and Tourism Impact for Greece and India
The launch of nonstop services to India is expected to have significant ripple effects on both tourism and business relations. According to data from the Greek National Tourism Organization (GNTO), Indian visitor arrivals to Greece grew by over 55% between 2019 and 2023, despite limited direct air access.
Tourism stakeholders in both countries have lauded Aegean’s announcement, with India’s Ministry of Civil Aviation describing it as a “win-win for bilateral trade, tourism, and civil aviation cooperation.”
For Greece, these routes may attract new investment and diversify tourism beyond traditional European source markets. For India, the services offer better connectivity to Europe, especially for outbound business travelers, honeymooners, and students.
Aegean Airlines: From Regional Player to Global Connector
Founded in 1999, Aegean Airlines has evolved from a regional operator into a Star Alliance member with a growing international network. This bold foray into Asia marks its entry into the global long-haul market, with India serving as its first step into broader intercontinental service.
As the airline prepares to launch these landmark routes in 2026, it is simultaneously elevating Greece’s status as a competitive long-haul aviation hub. The skies between Athens and Asia are opening up, and Aegean Airlines is leading the charge—with India as its gateway to the East.
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