Published on
September 18, 2025
Ukraine and Moldova will see stronger air connectivity as SkyUp Airlines expands its direct flights from Greece to Chișinău for summer 2026, linking Athens, Thessaloniki, and Heraklion with Moldova’s capital and opening wider access to Ukraine and Eastern Europe. The new schedule, starting in March and May 2026, increases frequencies across key Greek cities and highlights SkyUp’s strategy to strengthen regional travel, support business and leisure demand, and position Chișinău as a vital gateway to Ukraine and beyond.
SkyUp Airlines Expands Greek Routes to Chișinău for Summer 2026
Following a strong 2025 season, SkyUp Airlines has reaffirmed its commitment to strengthening connectivity between Greece and Moldova by continuing its direct services into summer 2026. The Ukrainian carrier has announced that flights will operate from Athens, Heraklion, and Thessaloniki to Chișinău, offering travelers consistent and reliable access to Moldova’s growing hub.
This expansion demonstrates SkyUp’s long-term strategy of reinforcing regional air links and serving as a bridge between Southern and Eastern Europe. Chișinău, the Moldovan capital, has emerged as a destination of rising interest not only for leisure travelers but also for business visitors, as it continues to position itself as a gateway to Eastern Europe, including connections to Ukraine.
A Strengthened Greece–Moldova Air Corridor
The continuation of these routes highlights the growing importance of direct flights in supporting both tourism and commerce. Greece’s popularity as a holiday destination, combined with Moldova’s expanding role as a regional hub, makes these services valuable to a wide spectrum of passengers.
Athens, with its position as a global gateway, will resume direct connections to Chișinău on March 30, 2026. Services will run twice weekly, catering to both outbound Greek tourists seeking new experiences in Moldova and inbound travelers eager to explore the cultural, historical, and natural wealth of Greece.
Thessaloniki will provide the most frequent schedule, with three weekly flights beginning on the same day. Known as one of Greece’s most important cultural and economic centers, Thessaloniki offers strategic access for Moldovan travelers looking for both leisure and business opportunities.
Heraklion, the largest city on Crete, will join the network later in the season. Starting on May 22, 2026, flights will operate twice weekly, serving the growing number of passengers who seek to combine Mediterranean holidays with Eastern European explorations.
Meeting Demand from Leisure and Business Travelers
Direct connectivity between Greece and Moldova has become increasingly important as travel demand diversifies. For leisure passengers, the routes open up opportunities to explore destinations less frequented by mass tourism. Chișinău offers a blend of history, culture, and vibrant city life, while Greece continues to attract travelers from across Europe seeking sun, sea, and heritage.
For business travelers, the routes provide efficient access to markets in both countries. Moldova has become an emerging destination for trade and investment, while Greece remains a vital link in regional commerce and transport. SkyUp’s scheduling of multiple frequencies across three major Greek cities ensures flexibility and convenience for professionals managing cross-border operations.
SkyUp’s Growth Strategy Across Europe
Maintaining these routes in 2026 underscores SkyUp’s broader ambition to establish itself as a dependable and forward-looking European airline. Despite challenges faced by the aviation sector in recent years, the carrier continues to demonstrate resilience and adaptability.
Beyond its operations in Greece, SkyUp has confirmed plans to expand its summer network with additional destinations, reflecting strong passenger demand for affordable, direct flights across the continent. By broadening its footprint, the airline positions itself as a key player in Europe’s evolving aviation landscape, offering travelers greater choice and reliability.
The airline’s focus on seasonal demand also illustrates its flexibility. By tailoring its schedule to the peak summer months, SkyUp maximizes efficiency while providing essential connections during periods of high travel activity. This approach aligns with its strategy of steady but sustainable growth.
Strengthening Bilateral Ties Between Greece and Moldova
Air connectivity does more than move passengers—it fosters cultural exchange, tourism development, and economic cooperation. The decision to maintain and expand Greek services to Chișinău reflects the strengthening relationship between the two countries.
Tourists traveling from Greece will find Moldova an appealing destination with authentic experiences, historic landmarks, and access to Eastern European culture. Conversely, Moldovan travelers gain direct links to some of Greece’s most iconic cities, enhancing their ability to explore Mediterranean heritage, leisure, and commerce.
These routes serve as a symbol of regional cooperation and highlight the role of airlines in bridging nations, not just physically but economically and socially.
Service Reliability and Market Presence
The continuation of Greek routes for 2026 also underscores SkyUp’s reliability as a carrier. By sustaining operations across multiple hubs, the airline reassures passengers of its long-term commitment to the market.
The availability of two to three weekly flights from each Greek city ensures consistency while offering enough frequency to accommodate both short trips and extended stays. For travelers, this reliability is a key factor when planning journeys that combine business, leisure, or onward connections.
To further support its network expansion, the airline has put systems in place to enhance sales and customer service in Greece. These measures strengthen its market presence and ensure travelers benefit from a seamless booking and travel experience.
Looking Ahead to 2026 and Beyond
SkyUp’s decision to maintain and expand its Greek routes into 2026 represents more than a seasonal adjustment. It reflects confidence in the resilience of European travel and the enduring appeal of both Greece and Moldova as destinations.
By balancing network growth with strategic scheduling, the airline continues to adapt to shifting passenger expectations. Travelers in 2026 will enjoy more choice, greater connectivity, and access to diverse destinations across the continent.
Ukraine and Moldova gain a major travel boost as SkyUp Airlines expands direct summer 2026 flights from Athens, Thessaloniki, and Heraklion to Chișinău, reinforcing regional links across Eastern Europe.
As demand for regional and cross-border travel continues to grow, SkyUp’s presence in Greece will remain a cornerstone of its wider European network. For passengers, the routes offer new opportunities for exploration and connection, reinforcing the role of aviation as a driver of mobility, cultural exchange, and economic growth.
