Home » AIRLINE NEWS » Greece Gears Up for a Landmark Summer 2026 Tourism Season with Expanded Global Flight Connections

Published on
January 12, 2026

Greece is set to welcome an exceptional surge of international visitors in summer 2026, as airlines launch new routes and expand existing services from key markets across the Middle East, Africa, Central Europe, and the Balkans. These developments are designed to improve access to Greece’s most popular destinations, including Athens, Mykonos, Skyros, and Kalamata, while also introducing innovative lifestyle connections to international hotspots like Ibiza, creating a fresh mix of culture, leisure, and entertainment opportunities for travelers.

Enhanced Access from Africa via Ethiopian Airlines
Ethiopian Airlines will expand its weekly service from Addis Ababa to Athens, increasing flights from four to five per week starting June 17, 2026. The additional midweek rotation operates on a Boeing 737 MAX 8, departing Addis Ababa at 08:55 and arriving in Athens at 14:35, with the return flight leaving Athens at 15:35 and landing at 20:50. This enhancement reinforces Athens’ role as a key hub within Ethiopian Airlines’ network, offering more flexibility and convenience for African travelers and supporting Greece’s growing position as a major intercontinental tourism destination.

Smartwings Introduces Prague – Skyros Charter
Central European visitors will have new access to the Aegean island of Skyros as Smartwings launches a weekly charter from Prague, running every Monday from June 8 to September 28, 2026. Operated with an Airbus A220-300, the flight departs Prague at 05:00, landing in Skyros at 08:20, and returns at 09:10, arriving in Prague by 10:40. This route encourages more balanced tourism across Greece, giving visitors the opportunity to explore lesser-known destinations while experiencing the island’s natural beauty, including secluded beaches, rolling hills, and traditional villages.

Kuwait Airways Revives Luxury Flights to Mykonos
Mykonos will see the return of Kuwait Airways’ seasonal service from June 14 to September 13, 2026. Operating twice weekly with A320neo and A321neo aircraft, this service targets high-end travelers from the Gulf region. The resumption of flights enhances Mykonos’ reputation as a luxury destination, offering pristine beaches, upscale resorts, and a lively nightlife scene. The route also strengthens Greece’s strategy to attract premium visitors who contribute significantly to the tourism economy.

Wizz Air Connects Tirana and Kalamata
Wizz Air will introduce twice-weekly direct flights between Tirana and Kalamata starting March 31, 2026, operating on Tuesdays and Saturdays. This marks Wizz Air’s first service to Kalamata Airport and provides an accessible gateway between Albania and southern Greece. The new route facilitates regional tourism and cultural exchange, promoting exploration of the Peloponnese region while offering travelers competitive fares for an affordable Mediterranean getaway.

Sky Express Pilots Athens – Ibiza Link
Greek airline Sky Express is trialing a limited Athens – Ibiza service during the peak summer period, with round-trip flights on July 29 and August 3, 2026, operated with an A320neo. Designed for leisure and nightlife travelers, this connection links Greece’s capital with Ibiza’s world-famous party scene. The initiative reflects evolving travel preferences, appealing to visitors who seek both experiential leisure and cultural engagement during their summer vacations.

Diversifying Greece’s Tourism Offering
These new and expanded routes highlight Greece’s commitment to diversifying its tourism base and improving international connectivity. By opening both major and emerging destinations to a broader audience, the country is promoting balanced tourism growth and encouraging travelers to explore regions that were previously less visited. Destinations such as Skyros and Kalamata are gaining new visibility, supporting local economies while alleviating visitor congestion in more traditional hotspots.

The timing of these flights during peak travel months ensures maximum benefit for the tourism sector, stimulating demand for accommodation, dining, and local attractions. Lifestyle-oriented connections, such as Athens – Ibiza, further illustrate Greece’s innovative approach to modern tourism, appealing to travelers seeking unique experiences beyond conventional sightseeing.

Outlook for Summer 2026
With enhanced international air connectivity, Greece is poised to experience a record-breaking summer in 2026. The combination of improved access from key global markets and the promotion of both well-known and emerging destinations positions the country as a top choice for travelers seeking a mix of culture, scenic landscapes, island retreats, and lifestyle experiences.

These developments demonstrate Greece’s forward-looking approach to tourism, highlighting adaptability, resilience, and a strategic focus on sustainable growth. The summer of 2026 promises to offer international travelers seamless journeys, unforgettable experiences, and unparalleled opportunities to explore the diversity and beauty of Greece.