Aegean Airlines is set to launch the first direct flights between Greece and India, with nonstop services to New Delhi starting March 2026 and Mumbai following in May 2026. This marks a major shift in travel connectivity between the two nations and a strategic expansion for Greece’s national carrier.
Until now, travellers flying between India and Greece had to rely on one-stop connections through hubs like Doha, Dubai, Istanbul, or Frankfurt. Direct flights were non-existent, making itineraries longer and often more expensive.
This new move by Aegean changes that completely.
New Routes and Schedules
Aegean will operate five weekly flights to Delhi and three weekly flights to Mumbai using its brand-new Airbus A321neo XLR aircraft, scheduled for delivery in December 2025 and January 2026.
- Delhi to Athens: 5 direct flights per week from March 2026.
- Mumbai to Athens: 3 direct flights per week starting May 2026.
- Ticket sales and detailed schedules will be available from September 2025.
Inside the A321neo XLR
These new flights are possible thanks to Aegean’s recent investment in two cutting-edge Airbus A321neo XLR aircraft. Boasting a range of up to 10.5 hours, the A321neo XLR allows for non-stop journeys between Athens, Delhi, and Mumbai.
These aircraft are game-changers for a few reasons:
- Cabin Design: 138 seats, including 24 luxurious Business Class suites with lie-flat beds, aisle access, and enhanced privacy.
- Economy Perks: More personal space, 4K inflight entertainment, satellite Wi-Fi, device charging ports, and extra-large overhead bins.
- Future-Ready Fleet: By 2030, Aegean aims to operate a total of 60 Airbus A320/321neo jets, further boosting its long-haul capacity.
So, whether you’re a business traveller or on a leisure trip to Santorini or Mykonos, the experience is about to get much smoother.
How Travellers Currently Connect India and Greece
At present, no airline offers non-stop flights between India and Greece. Passengers must connect via major international hubs, commonly through carriers like Etihad, Emirates, Qatar Airways, or Turkish Airlines, with stopovers in the Middle East or Istanbul. For example:
- Delhi/Mumbai to Athens: Popular routes connect through Abu Dhabi, Doha, Dubai, or Istanbul, with typical one-stop or two-stop itineraries.
- Travel Duration: Depending on connections, India-Greece journeys currently take upwards of 12 to 16 hours, adding significant layover time and travel fatigue.
Aegean’s direct services will slash journey times, streamline layovers, and offer more predictable travel options.
Why Now? India’s Growing Travel Market Is Too Big to Ignore
Here’s the thing: India may not be a huge source market for Greece right now, but that’s changing fast. In 2024, an estimated 30 million Indians travelled abroad, and that number is expected to rise as India’s middle class expands.
Although only about 3% of Indians currently travel internationally, airlines and tourism boards are already positioning themselves to tap into this rapidly growing market.
For Aegean, this is a strategic bet. And it makes sense.
From Postponement to Fast-Tracking: What Changed?
Originally, Aegean had planned to wait until 2027 to enter the Indian market. That was due to delivery delays of four A321neo LR (long-range) aircraft, which have a shorter range than the XLR version.
But with the XLR deliveries now locked in for late 2025, the airline is accelerating its India expansion by a full year. And India may not be the only long-haul market Aegean is eyeing.
Destinations like Bangalore, Seychelles, Maldives, Nairobi, Almaty, and Lagos are also under consideration once the full fleet is in place by 2028.
What This Means for Indian Travellers and Foreign Workers
Let’s break it down:
- Indian tourists headed to Greece can now skip connecting flights and layovers in the Middle East or Europe.
- Greek businesses seeking deeper ties with India’s tech and startup scene get faster access to major Indian metros.
- Foreign workers in both countries benefit from improved travel logistics, especially those working in tourism, hospitality, and shipping industries that link the Mediterranean and South Asia.
Previously, the lack of a direct route made travel slower, more expensive, and less attractive for many professionals. This new connection makes short-term business trips and long vacations far more viable.
Aegean’s Growing Fleet and Global Connectivity Push
With these new deliveries, Aegean’s total A320/A321neo order rises to 60 aircraft, 36 of which have already been delivered. The remaining planes, including four A321neo LRs, will arrive by 2028.
It’s all part of a bigger effort to position Athens as a long-haul hub, not just for Europe-bound travellers, but also as a launchpad into Asia and Africa.
When Can You Book Tickets?
Aegean plans to announce exact flight schedules and open ticket sales by the end of September 2025. That gives travellers and agents time to plan ahead for 2026.
Final Thoughts
Aegean Airlines’ direct flights to India aren’t just about saving time in the air. They reflect a growing confidence in India’s role in global travel and a smart bet on future demand.
If you’ve been dreaming of sipping ouzo on a beach in Naxos or exploring ancient ruins in Athens without a layover in Doha, March 2026 can’t come soon enough.