Review: Five Reasons to Fly with Aegean Airlines
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Aegean Airlines - A Flying Greek
Aegean Airlines is the biggest airline in Greece. It is a part of Star Alliance which is one the most well-known airline alliances. Aegean Airlines has hubs at Athens, Larnaca and Macedonia Airport. The airline serves mainly passengers travelling to/from Greece but buying tickets with only a connection in Greece is also possible.
Aegean Airlines was founded in 1987 and it has an excellent safety record. The fleet consists only of short-haul aircraft so Aegean Airlines does not fly any long-distance routes. Because the airline is based in southern Europe it is not the first choice for people travelling in central or northern Europe.
Travel Classes
Aegean Airlines has two travel classes: Economy and Business.
Economy class passengers have normal seats in the rear or middle of the cabin. Unlike, many other European airlines, there is complimentary onboard service also in the Economy class.
Business class is the best option to fly on Aegean Airlines. The adjacent seat will be free, better meals are served and there are extra services at the airport like priority security and a complimentary lounge visit. Otherwise, the seat on the plane is just an ordinary seat.
Fleet
Aegean Airlines flies only with Airbus A32X fleet. The fleet is relatively modern and more aircraft have been ordered. The capacity of a single aircraft varies from 144 to 220 passengers.
Route Network
Aegean Airlines has a wide route network in Europe and the Middle East. The airline flies almost to all big European capitals but some of the routes are seasonal. For example, a few routes from Athens to northern Europe are flown only from spring to autumn.
Our Aegean Airlines Experiences
We flew with Aegean Airlines from Barcelona to Helsinki via Athens. It was our first time on Aegean's flight and we were positively surprised. Despite our very affordable tickets, boarding Aegean Airlines for the very first time exceeded the expectations.
Reasons to Choose Aegean Airlines
Based on our experiences, we list 5 reasons why to fly with Aegean Airlines.
Better Onboard Services
Aegean Airlines does not ask for money for every service provided onboard. Before the pandemic, a passenger used to get a warm meal and free drinks even during short international flights. These meals were tasty Greek food. In addition to the warm meals, the airline served also delicious desserts. However, during the pandemic, only snacks, sweets and water have been provided. We wish Aegean Airlines to return to the state before the pandemic.
Aegean Airlines is also bringing WiFi to its fleet. The WiFi does not provide only an internet connection but also onboard entertainment.
In Europe, there is another airline that has a chance to beat Aegean Airlines with even better onboard services. Also, Turkish Airlines provides excellent onboard services.
Friendly Crew
On our flights, the crew appeared to be happy and friendly. They were rendering their services passionately. The services on board were catered by an enthusiastic and professional crew. We could say this is closely related for the reason that people in southern Europe possess a cheerful attitude. We felt Aegean Airlines' customer service was great!
Stopover at Athens
It is easy to book Aegean Airlines flights so that you have a one-night stopover in Athens. The stopover does not increase the flight price so basically, you get it free.
Greece is an inexpensive country so you will easily find a moderate priced hotel for your one-night stopover. The Athens airport is connected to the city centre by a metro line so visiting Athens for one evening is easy and handy.
Flight Deals
The normal rates of Aegean Airlines do not differ much from other airlines. Aegean airlines are not always the cheapest option but the prices are competitive.
Luckily, Aegean Airlines has often great deals. Travellers should follow marketing and finding an affordable deal is more than probable. Even though connecting flights at Athens Airport may take a little more time, the great onboard service pays it back!
It is important to compare flight prices because they vary a lot. Find the best flight deals on Skyscanner.
Miles Program
Aegean Airlines is a part of Star Alliance. The airline has a frequent flyer program called Miles+Bonus.
Aegean Airlines' bonus program has often been rated good but you can freely choose to which Star Alliance program you collect miles. A passenger can just choose the program that suits them best.
Rating
We rate Aegean Airlines as 4.5 airline. The airline still provides free onboard services even in the Economy class. The fleet is moderately new and entertainment is provided. Aegean Airlines is well-known for its friendly crew.
Bottom Line
If you are planning to travel around southern Europe we recommend choosing Aegean Airlines. The airline may also be a suitable option while travelling from northern Europe to the south as Athens is a practical connection point. If we lived in southern Europe, Aegean Airlines would be our favourite airline.
Have you flown with Aegean Airlines? Write below your Aegean Airlines experiences!
You are right, that is unacceptable and a reason not to fly. Aegean should behave better.
We recommend filing a complaint to your credit card company if paid with a card. Or contacting European Consumer Centre to ask for assistance.