Home » Greece » Greece Travel News » Greece Strengthens Its Global Appeal with New Air Routes for 2026, Connecting High-Demand Markets to Iconic Destinations and Hidden Gems
Published on
January 12, 2026
Greece is set to revolutionize its tourism sector in 2026 with a series of game-changing air routes that will provide unprecedented access to its most iconic islands and cultural hotspots. These new connections, spanning high-demand markets across the Middle East, Africa, Central Europe, and the Balkans, will not only make it easier for travelers to reach popular destinations like Athens, Mykonos, and Kalamata but also bring attention to hidden gems such as Skyros. With enhanced connectivity and a focus on offering travelers diverse experiences, Greece is positioning itself as an even more attractive and accessible destination for 2026, ensuring a vibrant, successful tourism season ahead.
Greece Prepares for a Thriving Summer 2026 Tourism Season with Expanded Air Links
As Greece gears up for a bustling tourism season in summer 2026, an influx of new and expanded air routes will further enhance the country’s status as one of Europe’s premier travel destinations. A combination of fresh connections from high-demand markets in the Middle East, Africa, Central Europe, and the Balkans is set to improve accessibility to key destinations such as Athens, Mykonos, Skyros, and Kalamata. In addition, a new trendy link to the world-renowned party island of Ibiza will cater to growing interest in both relaxation and nightlife. Here’s a closer look at the exciting developments in Greek air travel for 2026.
Ethiopian Airlines Expands Addis Ababa-Athens Service
Ethiopian Airlines is significantly increasing its service between Addis Ababa and Athens, underscoring Greece’s importance as a central hub within the airline’s African and intercontinental network. Starting June 17, 2026, the airline will add a fifth weekly flight, bringing the total number of weekly connections to five. The new Wednesday flight (ET764) will depart Addis Ababa at 08:55, arriving in Athens at 14:35. The return flight (ET765) will leave Athens at 15:35, landing back in Addis Ababa at 20:50. The new flight will be operated by a Boeing 737 MAX 8, offering enhanced comfort and efficiency for travelers.
This expansion reflects Ethiopia’s growing role as a key player in connecting Africa to Europe, and Athens is becoming an increasingly important stop for passengers traveling between the two continents.
Smartwings Brings Prague to Skyros
Czech airline Smartwings is unveiling a new charter service between Prague and the idyllic island of Skyros, an increasingly popular destination in the Aegean. Running from June 8 to September 28, 2026, this weekly service will use an Airbus A220-300, departing Prague every Monday at 05:00 and arriving in Skyros at 08:20. The return flight, QS2365, will leave Skyros at 09:10 and reach Prague by 10:40.
This new connection is set to boost Skyros’ profile among Central European tourists, expanding Greece’s tourism footprint beyond its most famous islands. With the introduction of this route, Smartwings aims to diversify Greek tourism offerings, making less-explored islands more accessible to travelers seeking unique experiences.
Kuwait Airways Resumes Mykonos Service
Kuwait Airways will resume its popular seasonal flights between Kuwait and Mykonos for summer 2026. The airline will operate two weekly flights, scheduled for Thursdays and Sundays, from June 14 to September 13, 2026. Using its modern fleet of A320neo and A321neo aircraft, Kuwait Airways’ return to Mykonos strengthens the island’s appeal as a luxury destination for Gulf travelers. Known for its glamorous atmosphere and stunning beaches, Mykonos is a favorite getaway among those seeking a sophisticated escape.
This resumed service is expected to bring a surge of travelers from the Gulf region, eager to enjoy the high-end hospitality and nightlife that Mykonos is famous for.
Wizz Air Launches Tirana to Kalamata Route
Low-cost carrier Wizz Air is adding a new direct route from Tirana, Albania, to Kalamata in Greece’s Peloponnese region, starting March 31, 2026. The twice-weekly service, scheduled for Tuesdays and Saturdays, marks Wizz Air’s first-ever connection to Kalamata. The airline aims to foster cultural exchanges and tourism between Albania and Greece, particularly to Kalamata’s rich historical sites and scenic coastline.
Fares for this new route will start at a very affordable 2,490 Albanian Lek, making it easier for travelers to explore Kalamata’s blend of ancient history and natural beauty. This new route will likely attract visitors looking to explore Greece’s southern coastline, offering access to iconic landmarks like the Temple of Apollo Epicurius and the stunning beaches of the region.
Sky Express Tests Athens to Ibiza Route
Greek airline Sky Express is testing a new seasonal route between Athens and Ibiza, one of Europe’s most popular party islands. Two limited round-trip flights will operate on July 29 and August 3, 2026. These overnight flights, operated on an A320neo, will provide an exciting option for travelers seeking a quick escape to Ibiza’s vibrant nightlife scene.
The new connection is designed to cater to premium leisure travelers, offering an exclusive way to experience both Athens and Ibiza in one trip. With this route, Sky Express aims to capture the growing demand for short, luxurious getaways to two of the Mediterranean’s most exciting destinations.
Greece is set to transform its tourism landscape in 2026 with new air routes providing unmatched access to iconic destinations and hidden gems. These enhanced connections will make Greece more accessible, boosting its appeal as a top Mediterranean travel hub.
Greece: A Rising Star in European Tourism
These recent updates demonstrate Greece’s commitment to enhancing accessibility and diversifying its tourism offerings. With a combination of increased services and new routes, Greece is poised to welcome a broader range of travelers from all over the world in 2026. From the Aegean islands to its rich historical cities, Greece remains an iconic destination for leisure, culture, and nightlife.
These new air links, which offer direct access to some of Greece’s most popular and lesser-known destinations, are expected to fuel a significant rise in tourism numbers, benefiting both well-established regions like Athens and Mykonos, as well as lesser-visited gems like Skyros and Kalamata. By improving connectivity and catering to the needs of international travelers, Greece is ensuring that its tourism industry continues to thrive well into the summer of 2026 and beyond.
With these new routes and increased services, Greece is set to become even more accessible and attractive to travelers seeking a blend of history, culture, luxury, and adventure.
