Airbus A321neo XLR. Photo: Shutterstock Expanding Aegean's Reach: Aegean, one of the stable and growing airlines in Europe, announces another strategic move: the acquisition of two Airbus A321neo XLR aircraft, the longest-range model in the A320 family, offering a flight range of up to 10.5 hours and considered one of the most innovative aircraft in the world today.
Direct Flights to India – Starting March 2026
Aegean's new aircraft are intended, among other things, to launch direct routes to New Delhi (March 2026) and Mumbai (May 2026), marking the company's first significant step into the huge Indian market, which has not yet been part of its route network.
To New Delhi: 5 weekly flights
To Mumbai: 3 weekly flights
The company mentions that the full flight schedule will be published next September when sales open.
This move places Aegean on the long-haul route map and signals a shift in perception: no longer a "Mediterranean" airline but an aspiring player in the international market.
While some companies use the XLR to address operational efficiency, Aegean opted for a premium concept:
Only 138 seats, including 24 business suites with flatbeds, direct aisle access, and maximum privacy
Spacious economy class, 4K quality screens, satellite Wi-Fi, charging outlets, and increased storage bins
This move places the Greek company in a new position, allowing it to compete not only on destination but on the travel experience itself.
The Future Fleet of Aegean
With this order, Aegean's A320/A321neo fleet stands at 60 aircraft:
36 already delivered, 4 A321neo LR aircraft expected to join in 2027–2028, and an additional 2 XLR aircraft to be delivered by early 2026.
The aircraft are integrated into a "dedicated" fleet that will allow long-haul flights outside the European Union, positioning Aegean comfortably to expand the network to additional destinations: Bangalore, Seychelles, Nairobi, Lagos, and the Maldives are all on the table.
Aegean, represented in Israel by Open Sky, is perhaps a relatively small airline compared to the giants of Europe, but the choice of the most advanced model and the investment in a well-developed product even for the economy class indicate long-term thinking and not just a response to the medium range.
"These aircraft will not only allow us to reach new destinations but also offer a different flying experience, one that sets us apart," said Aegean Chairman Eftichios Vassilakis, adding: "This move places us in a much stronger position in terms of connecting Greece with the world."