Aegean Airlines is widely recognized as a safe and reliable European carrier, consistently providing high-quality service throughout Europe and nearby regions. As Greece’s major airline, Aegean maintains a good safety record and a modern fleet, ensuring that passengers arrive at their destinations conveniently and securely.
The airline commenced commercial operations in 1999 and remains modest in most criteria when compared to Europe’s leading competitors. Nevertheless, Aegean is Greece’s largest carrier, with 144 destinations, and it aims to expand its fleet by over 50% by 2026. Still, because most flights are limited to Europe and its close neighbors, many non-European travelers may be concerned about the safety of Aegean flights.
This page provides an in-depth analysis of Aegean Airlines’ safety record, reviews, certifications, fleet maintenance, and passenger experiences.
Aegean’s Safety Record
Aegean Airlines has had an excellent safety record over the years. Since commencing commercial operations in 1999, Aegean Airlines has maintained a clean safety record, with no major accidents or passenger fatalities.
Like all global carriers, it occasionally experiences minor operational incidents such as precautionary landings or mechanical issues, but none are indicative of systemic safety concerns. These minor incidents are not unusual and occur no more frequently with Aegean than with other major airlines.
The airline strictly follows European Union Aviation Safety Agency (EASA) regulations and implements rigorous safety management systems to ensure the safety of both passengers and crew.
Aegean Airlines Fleet and Aircraft Maintenance
As of 2025, Aegean Airlines operates a mixed fleet of Airbus and turboprop aircraft. The Airbus fleet includes:
- Airbus A320neo (20)
- Airbus A321neo (14)
- Airbus A320 (28)
- Airbus A321 (4)
Additionally, Aegean operates turboprop aircraft under Olympic Air:
- ATR 42-600 (3)
- ATR 72-600 (12)
- Dash 8-100 (2)
The A320 family of aircraft is know for its strong safety record and modern avionics. Aegean’s focus on fleet renewal, including significant investment in new-generation Airbus models, enhances fuel efficiency and operational safety.
All aircraft undergo regular maintenance and inspections under manufacturer guidelines and EU aviation standards.
Many of the most well-known and reliable airlines in the world, such as American Airlines, British Airways, Lufthansa Airlines, Turkish Airlines and hundreds more, use these same airframes, therefore, Aegean’s fleet is in good company.
IOSA Certification and Star Alliance Membership
Aegean Airlines holds the IATA Operational Safety Audit (IOSA) certification, confirming its adherence to internationally recognized safety and operational standards. Airlines review and renew the IOSA certification every two years, and it serves as a benchmark for airline safety compliance.
Aegean is also a member of Star Alliance, the world’s largest airline alliance. This membership underscores its reliability and facilitates global connectivity via codeshare agreements with carriers like Lufthansa, United Airlines, and Swiss International Air Lines.
Passenger Reviews and Industry Ratings
- Skytrax Rating: Aegean Airlines holds a 4-star Skytrax rating, acknowledging its in-flight service, cleanliness, and customer experience.
- AirlineRatings.com: Aegean consistently receives high safety ratings from aviation safety monitors, including a 7/7 score on AirlineRatings.com, which assesses criteria such as operational history, incident records, and audits.
- Awards: Named “Best Regional Airline in Europe” multiple times by Skytrax, Aegean has won passenger trust across European routes.
Conclusion: Is Aegean Airlines Safe to Fly?
Yes, Aegean Airlines is a safe airline backed by a solid safety record, modern aircraft, and compliance with international standards. With top-tier certifications, ongoing fleet upgrades, and a track record free of major accidents, Aegean is a reliable option for travel within Europe and surrounding regions.
Whether you’re flying for business or leisure, Aegean provides a comfortable and secure experience backed by reputable partners and global alliances.
FAQs
Yes, As a Star Alliance member with a 4-star Skytrax rating, safety, punctuality, and service quality on European routes are highly regarded by Aegean Airlines.
Aegean Airlines has a 7/7 safety rating on AirlineRatings.com and a 4-star COVID-19 Safety Rating from Skytrax, reflecting its adherence to WHO, ICAO, and IATA protocols.
Aegean Airlines operates a modern Airbus fleet (A320neo, A321neo, A320, A321) and Olympic Air turboprops (ATR 42/72, Dash 8-100), all maintained to high EU standards.
Yes. Aegean Airlines is a full member of the Star Alliance.