IndiGo Airlines has made a significant leap in international aviation by launching direct flights between Mumbai and Athens, marking its debut in long-haul operations with the Airbus A321XLR, the first of its kind in India. This new route commenced on January 23, 2026, and from January 24, 2026, the airline will also connect Athens with Delhi, operating three flights weekly to each destination.
The introduction of these flights is a response to the growing demand from Indian travelers for access to Athens, a city that has become increasingly attractive for tourism. This expansion not only enhances IndiGo’s European network but also facilitates seamless travel for passengers heading to Greek islands and other European destinations through a codeshare partnership with AEGEAN Airlines, pending regulatory approvals.
Pieter Elbers, CEO of IndiGo, expressed enthusiasm about this new route, highlighting its importance as the first international service operated by India’s first A321XLR aircraft. He emphasized that these direct flights will simplify travel for both leisure and business travelers while strengthening the cultural and economic ties between India and Greece, two of the world’s oldest civilizations.
Giannis Paraschis, CEO of Athens International Airport, noted that January 23, 2026, is a milestone for connectivity between India and Greece. He underscored the significance of this direct service, which not only boosts tourism but also enhances business and cultural exchanges between the two nations. Paraschis welcomed IndiGo’s strategic investment in the Greek market, which aligns with the airport’s developmental goals.
IndiGo has established itself as a leading airline in India and is recognized as one of the fastest-growing airlines globally. With a fleet of over 400 aircraft, the airline operates more than 2,200 daily flights, connecting over 95 domestic and 40 international destinations. In 2025, IndiGo served over 123 million passengers and was named «Best Airline in India and South Asia» by Skytrax at the World Airline Awards 2025. Additionally, it ranked as the sixth most punctual airline in the Asia-Pacific region for 2025, according to Cirium, a global aviation analytics firm.
For more information about IndiGo and its services, travelers can visit the airline’s official website.
