Aegean Airlines Targets India with A321LR Launch in 2027
Aegean Airlines has identified India as the launch market for its upcoming Airbus A321LR operations, with direct flights to Delhi and Mumbai expected to begin in 2027. Speaking during the IATA Annual General Meeting in New Delhi, Chief Commercial Officer Roland Jaggi confirmed that the Athens-based Star Alliance carrier intends to deploy the first of its A321LR aircraft on these long-range routes, marking Aegean’s initial foray into the Indian market.
The Greek airline placed an order for the A321LR in April 2024, with the first aircraft scheduled to join the fleet in the first quarter of 2027, followed by a second by mid-year. Two more deliveries are planned—one before the end of 2027 and another in early 2028. The first two A321LRs will be equipped with additional fuel tanks, extending the aircraft’s range by approximately 1,300 km over the baseline A321neo, making them ideal for nonstop services between Greece and major Indian cities.
Jaggi also discussed the potential of the longer-range A321XLR, though he noted its limited benefit for Aegean’s specific network requirements. While the XLR could theoretically open routes to destinations like Bangalore, it would still face operational limitations, especially at high-altitude airports such as Johannesburg. For now, the A321LR offers the most practical solution for Aegean’s planned expansion into South Asia, with possible future reach to cities such as Lagos or Nairobi.
The new A321LRs will feature a premium onboard product, including 16 lie-flat business class seats and 31-inch pitch seating in economy. Beyond India, Aegean plans to use the aircraft to enhance its product offering on existing medium-haul routes such as Dubai and cities in Saudi Arabia.
India represents a major strategic step for Aegean, which has traditionally focused on Europe, North Africa, and the Middle East. “For us, India is a different exercise compared to what we are used to doing. The complexity is different,” Jaggi said. The airline is also exploring potential collaboration with Indian low-cost giant IndiGo, which could further support network growth and connectivity between the two countries.
Aegean currently operates a fleet of 68 Airbus A320/321-family aircraft, split between 36 new-generation neos and 32 ceos. By 2030, the carrier expects to operate 54 A320/321neos, including the A321LR variants. The airline also maintains a regional fleet consisting of 12 ATR 72s, three ATR 42s, and two Dash 8-100s, which are essential for operations to Greek islands and short-runway airports.
Despite ongoing issues with the Pratt & Whitney GTF engines grounding a portion of its fleet, Aegean plans to manage capacity through network adjustments and lease extensions rather than resorting to wet leasing. Jaggi noted that the peak of these operational disruptions is expected in 2026, with recovery anticipated by 2027.
With the A321LR, Aegean Airlines is positioning itself for selective long-range growth, starting with India as a pivotal market in its evolving global strategy.
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