Aegean Airlines Launches Delhi and Mumbai Flights in 2026

Aegean Airlines, Greece’s flagship carrier, is charting a new course by launching direct long-haul flights from Athens to New Delhi and Mumbai. This strategic move not only marks Aegean’s debut beyond Europe but also leverages cutting-edge Airbus A321XLR aircraft, promising a transformative experience for passengers traveling between Europe and India.

These routes, made possible by the acquisition of two Airbus A321XLR aircraft (deliveries expected in December 2025 and January 2026), will connect Greece with two of India’s most vibrant cities. Ticket sales are slated to begin in late September 2025, with detailed schedules to be announced then. This move accelerates Aegean’s earlier plans, initially set for 2027, and positions it to compete with carriers like IndiGo, which is also eyeing Europe-India routes.

Why India?

India’s aviation market is experiencing unprecedented growth, with over 90,000 passengers traveling between India and Greece in 2025, mostly via transit hubs like the Middle East or Istanbul. Aegean’s direct flights will simplify travel, reduce journey times, and cater to:

• Tourists: Indian travelers eager to explore Greece’s rich history, islands, and culture.

• Business Travelers: Connecting Athens’ growing business hub with India’s economic powerhouses.

• Indian Diaspora: Facilitating easier travel for the Indian community in Europe.

The move also aligns with Greece’s tourism push in India, with Greek travel companies promoting destinations like Santorini and Athens through tailored packages.

The Aircraft: Airbus A321XLR

Aegean’s choice of the Airbus A321XLR for these routes is significant. Here’s why:

• Unprecedented Range: The A321XLR offers a range of up to 10.5 hours, making direct flights from Athens to major Indian cities feasible.

• Cabin Comfort: Each aircraft features 24 lie-flat business suites and 114 economy seats, all with advanced Wi-Fi, 4K entertainment screens, personal charging, and extra-large overhead bins.

• Efficiency: This narrow-body aircraft offers the operational efficiency of a smaller plane, paired with the comfort traditionally found on larger jets.

Service Launch Details

• First Route: Athens to New Delhi — starts March 2026, five flights per week.

• Second Route: Athens to Mumbai — launches May 2026, three flights per week.

• Fleet Expansion: The airline expects to receive its A321XLRs in late 2025 and early 2026, with more long-range aircraft to join the fleet by 2027.

• Booking Timeline: Tickets will be available for purchase starting September 2025.

Competitive Impact

• Challenging the Gulf Majors: The direct Europe-India market is dominated by Middle Eastern carriers with stopover options. Aegean’s non-stop flights promise greater convenience and potentially faster journey times.

• Product Differentiation: Aegean’s emphasis on premium comfort, advanced in-flight tech, and direct connectivity is designed to attract both business and leisure segments seeking something new.

Looking ahead: Expansion Possibilities

Aegean is already considering further expansion to destinations like Bangalore, Seychelles, Maldives, Nairobi, Almaty, and Lagos as more aircraft are delivered. This could position Athens as a new super-connector hub between Europe and South Asia, shaking up traditional travel routes and competitive dynamics.

What This Means for Travelers

• Convenience: No more complicated connections through Gulf hubs.

• Premium Experience: Passengers get the highest level of comfort and connectivity on a single-aisle jet.

• Fresh Choices: New routes provide more flexibility and options for travel between two vibrant regions.

Quick Facts Table

Aegean Airlines’ direct Athens–India routes mark a watershed moment for the airline and for travelers seeking faster, more comfortable, and more reliable options between Europe and India. As the first A321XLRs take flight on these new routes, competition will heat up—benefiting flyers with better choices than ever before.

Disclaimer:The information presented in this blog is based on publicly available sources and official press releases as of July 2025. The author and publisher are not responsible for any changes or inaccuracies after the date of publication.

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