Aegean Airlines Overview & Company Profile
Aegean Airlines is the flag carrier of Greece and the country's largest airline by passengers carried, destinations served, and fleet size. Originally founded as Aegean Aviation in 1987 by Antonis and Nikolaos Simigdalas, the company relaunched as a full-service scheduled carrier in May 1999, with its first flights operating from Athens to Heraklion and Thessaloniki on Avro RJ 100 aircraft. In 2001, Aegean merged with Cronus Airlines to form Aegean Cronus Airlines, consolidating its position in the Greek market. The airline joined Star Alliance on 30 June 2010, becoming the 28th member of the global network.
A defining moment came in October 2013, when the European Commission approved Aegean's acquisition of Olympic Air for €72 million. The two brands continue to operate separately: Aegean handles the mainline jet operation while Olympic Air provides regional turboprop services to Greek islands and smaller domestic destinations. Together, the Aegean Group carried 16.3 million passengers in 2024, a 6% increase year-on-year, generating record consolidated revenue of €1.78 billion. The airline currently serves approximately 133 destinations across 44 countries, with a strong focus on connecting Greece to Europe, the Middle East, and, starting March 2026, long-haul routes to India (New Delhi and Mumbai) using the new Airbus A321neo XLR.
Aegean has been recognised as the Best Regional Airline in Europe at the Skytrax World Airline Awards for 14 consecutive years (2012 to 2025) and 15 times overall, a record unmatched by any other European regional carrier. The airline is led by CEO Dimitris Gerogiannis, who has steered the company through post-COVID recovery and a major fleet renewal programme worth over €4 billion.
Fleet Composition & Type Ratings
Aegean Airlines operates an all-Airbus narrowbody mainline fleet, complemented by ATR and Bombardier turboprops under the Olympic Air brand. The airline is in the midst of its largest-ever fleet renewal programme, with a committed order for 60 new-generation Airbus A320/A321neo family aircraft valued at approximately €4 billion. By late 2025, 36 of these aircraft had been delivered, and the complete order is expected to be fulfilled by 2031. The introduction of the A321neo XLR variant in late 2025 marks a significant strategic shift, enabling Aegean to operate long-haul routes to destinations like New Delhi and Mumbai, previously unreachable for the carrier.
The older A320ceo fleet (28 aircraft as of late 2025) will be gradually phased out as neo deliveries continue. For aspiring pilots, the most common entry type rating is the A320 family, which covers the entire mainline fleet from the A320ceo through to the A321neo XLR. Olympic Air pilots fly the ATR 42/72 family on Greek island-hopping routes.
| Aircraft Type | Role | In Service | Routes / Notes |
|---|---|---|---|
| Airbus A320neo | Narrowbody | ~20 | European short/medium-haul. Pratt & Whitney GTF engines. New cabin and livery. |
| Airbus A321neo | Narrowbody | ~14 | Higher-capacity European routes. 220 seats typical. Growing share of the fleet. |
| Airbus A321neo XLR | Narrowbody (long-range) | 2 | New Delhi, Mumbai from March 2026. Range up to 8,700 km. First for a Greek carrier. |
| Airbus A321ceo | Narrowbody | 4 | European routes. Legacy type, gradual phase-out expected. |
| Airbus A320ceo | Narrowbody | ~28 | Workorse of legacy fleet. Being replaced by neo variants. Avg. age ~11.4 years. |
| ATR 72-600 (Olympic Air) | Turboprop | 12 | Greek island routes. New deliveries ongoing (2 more on order by Dec 2026). |
| ATR 42-600 (Olympic Air) | Turboprop | 3 | Smaller Greek island routes and low-demand domestic sectors. |
| Dash 8-100 (Olympic Air) | Turboprop | 2 | Regional. Legacy type, likely to be replaced by ATR 72-600 deliveries. |
Fleet data as of late 2025. Numbers are approximate and evolve with ongoing deliveries and retirements. Source: Aegean Airlines official fleet page.
Aegean's committed order for 60 A320/A321neo family aircraft breaks down as follows: 21 A320neo, 33 A321neo, 4 A321neo LR, and 2 A321neo XLR. The XLR variants represent a game-changer for the airline, enabling routes of up to 8,700 km, which opens up destinations in India, Central Asia, and sub-Saharan Africa. The fleet renewal also includes 2 additional ATR 72-600 aircraft for Olympic Air, expected by December 2026. In total, Aegean plans to take delivery of 14 new aircraft between September 2025 and March 2027 alone.
Pilot Salary & Compensation Breakdown
Aegean Airlines pilot salaries are modest by Western European standards, reflecting both the Greek economic context and the airline's position as a regional carrier. Pay structures include a monthly base salary, per-sector and per-kilometre allowances, and annual bonuses for senior crew. Following the Greek economic crisis and years of frozen pay scales, salaries have recovered somewhat but remain below the European average for comparable carriers. According to industry sources such as PilotJobsNetwork and pilot forums, the pay scales as of 2024 are as follows.
First Officer (F/O) Pay Scale
| Seniority | Monthly Gross Base | Annual Gross (est.) | Notes |
|---|---|---|---|
| Pre-line training | €1,750 | ~€21,000 | Before completing line training. Scholarship graduates start here. |
| Year 1 | €1,950 | ~€23,400 – €28,000 | Base only. Total rises with per diem and sector pay. |
| Year 2–3 | €2,450 | ~€29,400 – €35,000 | Incremental step increase. |
| Year 4+ | €2,600 | ~€31,200 – €38,000 | Top of F/O base scale. Additional earnings from summer season flying. |
Base salary figures from PilotJobsNetwork (June 2024). Annual estimates include base salary only; total compensation with allowances, per diems, and bonuses can be 20–40% higher.
Captain (CDB) Pay Scale
| Seniority | Monthly Gross Base | Annual Gross (est.) | Notes |
|---|---|---|---|
| Year 1 | €3,800 | ~€45,600 – €55,000 | Entry Captain base. Significant jump from senior F/O. |
| Year 2–4 | €4,200 | ~€50,400 – €62,000 | Incremental increases through early Captain years. |
| Year 5–8 | €4,450 | ~€53,400 – €68,000 | Mid-career Captain level. |
| Year 9+ | €4,750 – €5,350 | ~€57,000 – €78,000 | Top of Captain scale. TRE/TRI instructors earn additional premiums. |
Figures from PilotJobsNetwork and AircrewNetwork (2024). Senior Captains with TRE/TRI qualifications and full summer schedules have reported total net monthly earnings of €7,000 – €9,000 pre-COVID, though post-COVID averages sit lower at approximately €3,500 – €4,700 net for mid-career Captains.
Additional Compensation Components
Beyond base salary, Aegean pilots receive per-sector pay (approximately €9.80 per sector), a per-kilometre allowance (€0.02/km flown), and yearly per diem payments estimated at around €3,500 gross. Profit-sharing or performance bonuses are available for Captains with 10+ years of seniority. There is also a company pension contribution of approximately 1% after 7 years of service. Greek income tax rates for these salary levels range from approximately 22% to 44%, and social contributions add a further ~15%, which significantly reduces take-home pay.
These figures are compiled from publicly available pilot job boards, pilot forum reports, and industry databases. Aegean Airlines does not publicly disclose its pilot pay scales. The salary data shown here may not reflect the most recent collective agreement or individual contract terms. Pay scales were reportedly frozen for several years following the Greek debt crisis and have only partially recovered. Greek tax and social security burdens are among the highest in the EU, which means that net take-home pay is considerably lower than gross figures suggest. Always verify current compensation directly with the airline or through pilot union channels before making career decisions.
Roster Pattern & Quality of Life
Aegean Airlines operates under EASA Flight Time Limitation (FTL) rules, which govern maximum flight hours, duty periods, and rest requirements across all EU carriers. As a predominantly short-haul and medium-haul airline, the roster pattern at Aegean is characterised by high seasonality: summers are intense, with block hours reaching 70 to 90 per month, while winter months can drop to 40 to 60 block hours. This seasonal swing is one of the defining features of working for a Greek carrier, given that Greece is one of Europe's most tourism-dependent economies.
Pilots typically receive 8 to 11 days off per month, depending on the season and seniority. Annual leave follows Greek labor law provisions, which generally provide 20 to 25 working days of paid leave per year, with additional days accruing based on seniority. The roster is variable (not fixed-pattern), with schedules published monthly and influenced by seniority-based bidding.
📅 Sample Month: Summer A320neo First Officer (Athens)
During peak summer months (June to September), multiple daily sectors to Greek islands are common, with early-morning departures and late returns. Multi-sector days of 3 to 4 flights are typical on island routes. Winter operations are far quieter, with reduced frequencies and more days off. This seasonal contrast is both a benefit (lighter winters) and a challenge (intense summers with limited rest).
Athens International Airport (ATH) is the primary base for nearly all Aegean mainline pilots. Thessaloniki (SKG) serves as a secondary base with some permanent pilot positions. During the summer season, Aegean may assign pilots to seasonal bases such as Rhodes, Heraklion, or Larnaca (Cyprus) for temporary periods. Olympic Air turboprop pilots may also be based at smaller Greek airports depending on operational needs. Athens offers a relatively affordable cost of living compared to Western European capitals, with excellent weather, proximity to the sea, and a growing international community. Commuting from Greek islands or other European cities is possible but less common given the Athens-centric nature of the operation.
Benefits, Travel Perks & Pension
Benefits at Aegean Airlines reflect a combination of Greek statutory employee rights and airline-specific provisions. While the overall package is less generous than those offered by major Western European flag carriers like Lufthansa or Air France, the Star Alliance membership provides meaningful travel privileges, and the Greek social security system covers healthcare and pension fundamentals.
As a Star Alliance member, Aegean offers its pilots access to one of the world's largest airline networks, covering over 1,200 destinations in 190+ countries. Staff travel benefits typically include heavily discounted or standby fares on all member airlines, from Lufthansa and United to Singapore Airlines and ANA. For a Greek-based pilot, this means affordable access to global travel that would otherwise be out of reach. The quality of this perk should not be underestimated when evaluating total compensation, especially given the relatively modest base salaries compared to Western European peers.
Career Progression & Seniority
Career progression at Aegean Airlines follows a seniority-based system, though the airline is smaller and more agile than legacy flag carriers in Western Europe, which can sometimes translate to faster progression during periods of growth. Aegean does accept direct-entry Captains with existing A320 type ratings and sufficient command experience, unlike airlines that promote exclusively from within.
For First Officers entering through the scholarship programme or as direct hires, the path to the left seat typically takes between 8 and 15 years, depending on the airline's growth rate, retirement patterns, and fleet expansion. The ongoing fleet renewal (60 new aircraft by 2031) and the introduction of long-haul XLR operations are expected to create significant new Captain positions in the coming years.
| Career Milestone | Typical Timeline | Notes |
|---|---|---|
| Scholarship training (if cadet path) | 17–20 months | Fully funded by Aegean. Partner schools: Global Aviation (Athens) & Egnatia Aviation (Kavala). |
| Type rating at AEGEAN|CAE Center | ~3 months | A320 type rating. Covered by the airline for official recruits. |
| Join as F/O (A320 family) | Post-training | Line training on A320ceo or A320neo. Athens-based. |
| Senior F/O | 4–6 years | Top of F/O pay scale. Eligible for seasonal base assignments. |
| Captain upgrade | ~8–15 years | Command assessment required. Fleet growth may accelerate timeline. |
| A321neo XLR Captain (long-haul) | 15+ years | New long-haul operation. Senior Captains likely prioritised. |
| TRI / TRE (Instructor / Examiner) | Variable | Separate selection process. Training conducted at AEGEAN|CAE Center. |
Aegean is in a period of aggressive expansion. The airline added 6 aircraft in the first half of 2025 alone, with 14 more planned between September 2025 and March 2027. The launch of long-haul XLR operations to India in 2026 represents an entirely new category of flying for the airline, which will require experienced Captains and create cascade effects throughout the seniority list. The pilot scholarship programme has already produced over 130 graduates who are now flying as Captains at Aegean and Olympic Air, demonstrating that progression from ab-initio to command is achievable within the company. For pilots joining now, the combination of fleet growth and new route categories suggests above-average career progression opportunities compared to stagnant carriers.
Recruitment Process & Requirements
Aegean Airlines recruits pilots through two main channels: the Pilot Scholarship Programme (for ab-initio candidates, covered in detail in the next section) and direct hire for experienced pilots with existing type ratings. The airline actively recruits both A320 family and ATR 42/72 type-rated Captains and First Officers through its careers portal at jobs.aegeanair.com.
Direct Hire: Type-Rated Pilots
Direct Hire: Non-Type-Rated Pilots
Aegean also recruits non-type-rated Captains and First Officers who demonstrate strong piloting skills and motivation. These candidates undergo the airline's type rating programme at the AEGEAN|CAE Flight Training Center at Athens Airport, which opened in partnership with CAE in 2023. The training centre features full-flight simulators for the A320 family and represents a significant investment in Aegean's training infrastructure.
Selection Process
Online Application
Submit CV, license copies, logbook summary, and supporting documents through the Aegean careers portal. Applications are reviewed on a rolling basis, with intake volumes varying by season and fleet growth needs.
Screening & Assessment
Shortlisted candidates are invited for aptitude and psychometric assessments. Aegean evaluates CRM competencies, situational awareness, decision-making, and English proficiency. The assessment may include computer-based testing and technical knowledge evaluation.
Simulator Assessment
A simulator session (typically on the A320) assesses flying skills, standard operating procedures, and multi-crew cooperation. For non-type-rated candidates, this may be adapted to evaluate raw piloting ability and trainability.
Interview Panel
Final interview with senior training and management staff. Focus on motivation, career objectives, personality fit, and alignment with Aegean's safety culture. Expect questions about Greek operational environment and seasonal flying challenges.
Medical & Contract
Successful candidates must present a valid EASA Class 1 Medical Certificate. Upon acceptance, a contract is issued with a start date for type rating (if needed) or direct line training.
Unlike Air France or Lufthansa, Aegean does not require Greek language fluency for non-Greek direct hires, which opens the door to international applicants. However, knowledge of basic Greek phrases and an understanding of the Greek aviation environment (highly seasonal, island-focused operations, complex ATC in the Aegean) will strengthen any application. The airline values adaptability, given the intense summer schedules and multi-sector island-hopping days that define its operation. Keep an eye on jobs.aegeanair.com for the latest openings.
Pilot Scholarship Programme
One of Aegean Airlines' most distinctive initiatives is its Pilot Scholarship Programme, launched in 2018. This fully-funded cadet pathway covers the majority of training costs (exceeding €90,000 per pilot) and leads directly to employment as a First Officer at Aegean or Olympic Air. With a total investment exceeding €15 million to date, the programme has supported over 240 candidates, of whom more than 130 have already graduated and are flying as Captains at the airline. Up to 40 new cadets are selected per annual cycle.
Scholarship Requirements
Training Pathway
Successful scholarship candidates train at one of two partner flight schools: Global Aviation Academy in Athens or Egnatia Aviation in Kavala, northern Greece. The programme delivers an integrated ATPL(MCC) course covering theoretical knowledge, single-engine and multi-engine flight training, instrument rating, and multi-crew cooperation. Upon completion, cadets proceed to type rating at the AEGEAN|CAE Flight Training Center at Athens Airport, followed by line training and direct employment. The 2026 intake cycle began accepting applications in late 2025, with the programme start date set for March 2026.
The Aegean Pilot Scholarship is one of the few fully-funded cadet programmes remaining in Europe where the airline covers the vast majority of costs. Unlike programmes at Ryanair or easyJet where cadets typically bear significant financial risk, Aegean's model is designed to nurture Greek and Cypriot talent while ensuring a pipeline of well-trained First Officers for its growing fleet. The programme is competitive, with hundreds of applicants vying for approximately 40 spots each year. For young Greek or Cypriot citizens considering an aviation career, this represents one of the most accessible and financially attractive entry points into the profession.
How Aegean Airlines Compares: Airline Radar Chart
How does Aegean stack up against two comparable European carriers? We compare against TAP Air Portugal, a fellow Star Alliance flag carrier of similar size operating from Southern Europe, and Volotea, a low-cost carrier focused on Mediterranean routes that competes directly with Aegean on several Greek and European routes.
Key Takeaways from the Comparison
Aegean leads on fleet modernity and job security. The airline's €4 billion fleet renewal programme, 15 consecutive Skytrax awards, and record financial results position it as one of the most stable employers in Southern European aviation. The fleet age of under 10 years for Airbus types is competitive, and the A321neo XLR introduction shows genuine strategic ambition.
TAP Air Portugal offers higher salaries and a wider long-haul network. As a larger flag carrier with established transatlantic routes, TAP typically pays Captains €6,000 to €10,000 per month at the top end, and First Officers €3,000 to €4,500. TAP also benefits from Portuguese labor law, which provides strong employee protections. However, TAP has faced prolonged financial instability and recent privatisation efforts, which add uncertainty.
Volotea offers flexibility but less stability. The low-cost carrier operates from multiple Mediterranean bases and can offer competitive starting salaries for First Officers (often matching or exceeding Aegean's base pay). However, Volotea lacks a loyalty programme, has a smaller fleet, and offers fewer long-term career guarantees. The working environment tends to be more intense with less generous roster provisions.
Aegean's unique advantage is lifestyle. Living in Athens with access to Greek islands, Mediterranean climate, and a manageable cost of living is a quality-of-life factor that cannot be quantified in a salary comparison. Combined with Star Alliance travel perks and a growing fleet, Aegean offers a compelling package for pilots who value lifestyle alongside career stability.
Scores are editorial estimates based on publicly available salary data, pilot testimonials, airline financial reports, and industry benchmarks from sources including PilotJobsNetwork, AircrewNetwork, FlightDeckFriend, and airline press releases. They represent a general assessment for an experienced pilot considering a long-term career. Individual experiences will vary based on seniority, fleet assignment, base location, and personal priorities. Scores for all airlines will be updated as new data becomes available.
Union & Industrial Relations
The union landscape for Greek airline pilots is less prominent than in France, Germany, or the United Kingdom. The main body representing airline pilots in Greece is the Panhellenic Association of Airline Pilots (PASPA / ΠΑΣΠΑ), which functions as the national pilots' union. PASPA represents pilots across Greek-based carriers and engages with the Hellenic Civil Aviation Authority (HCAA) and Greek government on regulatory and labor matters.
At the European level, Greek pilots are represented through the European Cockpit Association (ECA), which coordinates with EASA on flight time limitations, single-pilot operations policy, and cross-border employment standards. At the global level, PASPA's affiliation with the International Federation of Air Line Pilots' Associations (IFALPA) provides a voice in ICAO-level advocacy.
Industrial Climate at Aegean
Aegean Airlines has maintained a notably stable industrial relations environment. There are no recorded pilot strikes or major labor disputes in the airline's recent history. This stands in contrast to carriers in France (Air France/SNPL), Germany (Lufthansa/Vereinigung Cockpit), or the UK (British Airways/BALPA), where pilot industrial action has been more frequent. The absence of high-profile disputes may reflect the relatively small size of the pilot workforce, the Greek economic context (where job security is highly valued), and the airline's growth trajectory, which has generally aligned pilot interests with company expansion.
That said, the historically frozen pay scales and below-average compensation remain a point of concern among pilots. Industry forums such as PPRuNe contain discussions about the gap between Aegean pilot salaries and those at comparable European carriers. As the airline expands and profitability strengthens (record €1.78 billion revenue in 2024), pressure for salary improvements is likely to increase.
The relatively quiet labor relations at Aegean can be seen as both a positive and a concern. On the positive side, it means operational stability, no strike disruptions, and a collaborative company culture. On the other hand, the lack of strong collective bargaining visibility means that salary negotiations may not advance as quickly as at airlines with more assertive union representation. For pilots joining Aegean, it is worth understanding the union structure and considering active participation in PASPA to ensure that pilot interests are represented as the airline grows and evolves.
Verdict: Who Is Aegean Airlines For?
🎯 Our Take
Aegean Airlines is Greece's undisputed aviation leader and one of the most dynamic regional carriers in Europe. The combination of a rapidly modernising fleet (60 new Airbus neo aircraft by 2031), Star Alliance membership, 15 consecutive Skytrax awards, and a strong financial trajectory make it a genuinely attractive long-term employer for pilots. The launch of A321neo XLR long-haul operations to India in 2026 signals a new chapter that will diversify the flying and create fresh career opportunities.
The trade-offs are real: pilot salaries remain below the European average and well below what legacy carriers in France, Germany, or the UK offer. The Greek tax and social security burden is heavy. The operation is highly seasonal, with intense summers and quiet winters. And the benefits package, while adequate, lacks the generous pension systems and loss-of-license provisions found at airlines like Air France (CRPN) or Lufthansa.
For the right pilot, though, Aegean offers something unique: a growing flag carrier in one of Europe's most beautiful countries, with a Mediterranean lifestyle, affordable living in Athens, global travel perks through Star Alliance, and genuine career growth potential as the fleet expands.
1 Do I need to speak Greek to fly for Aegean Airlines?
Not necessarily. For the Pilot Scholarship Programme, Greek or Cypriot nationality (and therefore Greek language proficiency) is required. However, for direct-hire positions, Aegean recruits non-Greek pilots without mandatory Greek language fluency. ICAO English Level 4 minimum is required for all positions. That said, basic Greek knowledge is beneficial for daily life in Athens and interactions with colleagues.
2 Does Aegean pay for the type rating?
Yes, for pilots recruited through the official scholarship programme, type rating training at the AEGEAN|CAE Flight Training Center is fully covered. For direct hires recruited through official channels, type rating may also be provided, depending on the specific contract terms and the airline's needs at the time of recruitment. Always confirm this during the application process, as policies can vary.
3 How long does it take to become Captain at Aegean?
The typical timeline from First Officer to Captain at Aegean is estimated at 8 to 15 years, depending on the airline's growth rate, fleet expansion, and retirement patterns. The ongoing delivery of 60 new aircraft by 2031 and the launch of XLR long-haul operations should create new Captain positions and potentially accelerate upgrade timelines compared to historical averages.
4 Can non-EU citizens apply to Aegean Airlines?
The scholarship programme is restricted to Greek and Cypriot nationals. For direct-hire positions, EU/EEA citizens have the easiest path due to freedom of movement. Non-EU citizens would need a valid work permit for Greece, which can be complex to obtain. Aegean's primary recruitment focus is on EU-based pilots.
5 What is the difference between Aegean Airlines and Olympic Air for pilots?
Aegean Airlines operates the mainline Airbus jet fleet (A320 family) on international and major domestic routes, while Olympic Air operates ATR turboprops on regional Greek island routes and smaller domestic sectors. Both are part of the Aegean Group. Scholarship graduates may be assigned to either airline upon completion of training. Olympic Air pilots generally fly shorter sectors with more daily landings, while Aegean pilots operate longer European and (from 2026) long-haul routes.
6 How does Aegean pilot pay compare to other European airlines?
Aegean pilot salaries are below the European average. First Officers earn approximately €1,750 to €2,600 per month in base salary, while Captains range from €3,800 to €5,350. By comparison, airlines like Air France, Lufthansa, or British Airways offer significantly higher base pay (senior Captains can earn €15,000 to €21,000 per month at those carriers). However, the cost of living in Athens is considerably lower than Paris, Frankfurt, or London, and the Greek lifestyle offers its own form of compensation. The total package, including Star Alliance travel and quality of life, should be evaluated holistically.
7 What are the long-haul opportunities at Aegean?
Starting March 2026, Aegean will launch its first long-haul routes to New Delhi and Mumbai using two Airbus A321neo XLR aircraft. This is a historic expansion for the airline and marks the first time a Greek carrier will operate scheduled flights to India. Additional long-haul destinations may follow as Aegean evaluates demand and potentially adds more XLR aircraft to its fleet (4 A321neo LR variants are also on order). These routes will require augmented crews and will offer layover opportunities that were previously unavailable at Aegean.
8 Is Aegean Airlines a good first airline job?
For Greek and Cypriot citizens, the Pilot Scholarship Programme makes Aegean one of the most accessible entry points into professional aviation, with fully-funded training and guaranteed employment. For international pilots, Aegean offers a solid operational environment with modern aircraft, EASA-standard training, and Star Alliance network experience. The relatively lower salary is a downside, but the experience of flying in the complex Greek island environment, building hours on the A320 family, and working for a Skytrax award-winning carrier all add significant value to a pilot's CV.
Official Links & Resources
Before applying or making any career decisions, always verify information directly with official sources. These are the key websites and organisations relevant to Aegean Airlines pilot careers:
Bookmark the Aegean Press Releases page (about.aegeanair.com/press) for the latest updates on fleet deliveries, new routes, financial results, and scholarship programme cycles. For salary benchmarking, PilotJobsNetwork and PilotsGlobal are the most frequently updated third-party sources.
