Olympic Air

Olympic Air stands as a prominent symbol of Greek aviation history, serving as a vital bridge between the mainland and the country's enchanting archipelago. Operating as a subsidiary of Aegean Airlines, this carrier is renowned for its ability to connect travelers to even the most remote and picturesque corners of Greece. With a legacy that traces back to the golden age of travel, Olympic Air combines traditional Greek hospitality with modern efficiency, ensuring that every journey—whether to a bustling city or a quiet island retreat—is seamless and welcoming.

A Legacy of Connection

Originally founded by Aristotle Onassis in 1957, the airline carries a prestigious heritage as the former national carrier of Greece. Today, as part of the Aegean Airlines group, it plays a crucial role in the domestic transport network. Its primary mission is to maintain the connectivity of the Greek islands, often serving as a lifeline for smaller communities and a gateway for tourists seeking to explore destinations beyond the mainland.

Fleet and Operations

The Olympic Air fleet is specifically curated to navigate the unique geography of Greece. Currently consisting exclusively of ATR turboprop aircraft, specifically the ATR 42 and ATR 72 models, the airline is equipped to land at smaller regional airports with shorter runways that larger jets cannot access. This specialized fleet allows travelers to reach popular destinations such as Zakynthos, Milos, and Paros directly from major hubs.

Service and Excellence

As a member of the Aegean Group, Olympic Air adheres to high standards of safety and service. The airline has contributed significantly to the group's consistent recognition as the "Best Regional Airline in Europe" by Skytrax. Passengers can expect a reliable and friendly experience, reflecting the warmth of Greek culture. By integrating its schedule with international flights arriving in Athens and Thessaloniki, Olympic Air ensures that the wonders of the Greek islands are easily accessible to visitors from around the globe.

Olympic Air operates as a fully integrated subsidiary of Aegean Airlines. While its primary focus is connecting the Greek mainland to the islands, its international support network extends globally, including assistance for travelers in the United Arab Emirates. Most international inquiries and reservations are managed through the Aegean Airlines infrastructure, ensuring seamless service for passengers connecting from Dubai or Abu Dhabi to destinations across Greece.

For flight schedules, managing bookings, and the most up-to-date information on island connections, the official website is the best resource.

Official Website: www.olympicair.com

Contact Information

• Official Website: www.olympicair.com
• International Call Center (24/7): +30 210 62 61 000
• Headquarters: +30 210 35 50 000
• Email: contact@aegeanair.com (Managed by the Aegean Group)
• Mobile App: Aegean Airlines App (Supports Olympic Air bookings)

Social Media Channels

Travelers can follow the airline's official channels for news on routes to popular destinations like Zakynthos or Rhodes, as well as service updates:

• Facebook: Olympic Air
• Twitter/X: @olympic_air_gr
• Instagram: @olympic_air
• YouTube: Olympic Air

Support in the United Arab Emirates

Since Olympic Air does not fly directly to the UAE, ground handling and customer service at airports such as Dubai International and Zayed International in Abu Dhabi are provided by Aegean Airlines or designated local agents. For specific inquiries regarding baggage or ticketing in the UAE, passengers are advised to consult the official website for the current contact details of local handling agents or to reach out to the 24/7 international support line.

Emergency & 24/7 Support

For urgent matters, including changes to connecting flights via Athens or immediate assistance outside of local business hours, the main call center in Greece operates around the clock.

• 24/7 Support Line: +30 210 62 61 000

Traveling with Olympic Air requires a bit of planning, especially since the airline primarily operates smaller turboprop aircraft to connect Athens with the Greek islands. Understanding the baggage allowances ensures a smooth transfer, particularly for passengers arriving from international long-haul flights. The airline acts as a subsidiary of Aegean Airlines, meaning their policies are closely aligned, though the physical limitations of the fleet necessitate strict adherence to size restrictions.

Carry-On Baggage Allowance

All passengers are entitled to bring cabin baggage, but the specific allowance depends on the fare class purchased. Due to the smaller overhead bins on the ATR fleet, larger carry-on bags may need to be handed over at the aircraft steps and collected immediately upon landing ("Delivery at Aircraft").

• Economy Light & Flex: Passengers can typically carry one piece of hand baggage up to 8 kg with maximum dimensions of 55cm x 40cm x 23cm.
• Economy ComfortFlex: often allows the same 8 kg bag plus a personal item (like a handbag or laptop bag) that must fit under the seat in front.
• Gold Miles+Bonus Members: may be entitled to additional weight or pieces depending on their tier status.

Note: If your carry-on exceeds the size limits for the cabin, it will be tagged and placed in the hold free of charge, provided it is within the weight limit.

Checked Baggage Limits

Checked baggage policies are designed to offer flexibility based on your travel needs. If you are connecting from an international flight (e.g., from the UAE), your allowance may be determined by the interline agreement, but for purely domestic sectors, the following rules apply:

Excess Baggage Fees

If you plan to travel with more than the free allowance, it is highly recommended to purchase extra baggage online before your flight. Pre-purchasing additional bags through the "My Booking" section on the website can save up to 50% compared to paying at the airport counter. Fees vary depending on the season (Low vs. High season) and the destination.

Special Items: Sports & Music

Greece is a prime destination for outdoor activities, from windsurfing in Paros to hiking in Thessaloniki's surrounding regions. Olympic Air accommodates special equipment under specific conditions:

• Sports Equipment: Golf bags, ski equipment, and diving gear can be transported for a fee. Bicycles and larger items like windsurfing boards must be declared in advance due to limited cargo space on smaller aircraft.
• Musical Instruments: Small instruments can be brought into the cabin as hand luggage. For larger instruments (e.g., a cello), you may need to book an extra seat or transport it as checked cargo.

Restricted and Prohibited Items

To ensure safety on board, Olympic Air strictly adheres to international and EU regulations regarding dangerous goods:

• Liquids in Cabin: Must be in containers of 100ml or less, placed in a single transparent, re-sealable plastic bag of up to 1 liter capacity.
• Batteries: Loose lithium batteries and power banks must be carried in your cabin baggage, never in checked luggage.
• Prohibited: Explosives, flammable substances, compressed gases, and sharp objects are strictly forbidden in both cabin and hold luggage.

Tips for Efficient Packing

Traveling to destinations like Rhodes or Zakynthos often involves ferries or smaller transfers upon arrival. Here are some tips to make your journey easier:

• Use Soft-Shell Luggage: Soft bags are easier to stow in the tighter cargo holds of regional aircraft and are more practical for island transport.
• Keep Essentials Handy: Since your larger carry-on might be placed in the hold at the aircraft steps, keep your passport, wallet, and medications in a small personal bag that stays with you.
• Check Through: If you are flying from the UAE via Athens, ask at the check-in counter if your bags can be tagged through to your final island destination to avoid re-checking them during your layover.

Traveling with a pet requires careful planning, but Olympic Air strives to make the experience as smooth as possible for your furry companions. The airline generally allows cats, dogs, and ferrets to travel either in the cabin or in the aircraft hold, depending on their size and weight. Since the fleet consists of regional turboprop aircraft, space is more limited than on larger jets, making early booking essential to secure a spot for your pet.

Transport Options

In Cabin (Carry-on)

Small pets can travel with you in the cabin, provided they remain in their carrier throughout the flight. This option is ideal for keeping your companion close during short island hops.

• Carrier Dimensions: The container must not exceed 55 cm x 40 cm x 23 cm.
• Maximum Weight: The combined weight of the pet and the carrier must not exceed 8 kg.
• Allowed Pets: Primarily cats, dogs, and ferrets.
• Limit: Typically one pet container per passenger.

In Cargo Hold (Checked Baggage)

Animals that exceed the cabin weight limit are transported in the hold. The hold on Olympic Air's ATR aircraft is pressurized and temperature-controlled to ensure safety.

• Container Requirements: You must provide a rigid, IATA-compliant crate with sufficient ventilation and a secure locking mechanism.
• Size Limits: The crate must allow the animal to stand, turn around, and lie down comfortably.
• Weight Limits: Generally for pets (plus crate) weighing up to 32 kg. Heavier animals may need to be shipped as cargo.
• Documentation: Valid health documents must be attached to the crate.

As Cargo

For very large animals, unaccompanied pets, or species not permitted in the cabin or baggage hold, travel must be arranged via the cargo department.

• When Required: For animals exceeding standard checked baggage weight limits or for specific routes where hold transport is not feasible.
• Booking: Must be arranged separately through the cargo services of the Aegean/Olympic group.

Required Documentation

To ensure your pet is accepted for travel, especially if connecting through Athens from abroad, you must present the following:

• Veterinary Passport: A valid EU Pet Passport or equivalent official document.
• Microchip ID: The animal must be identified by a microchip.
• Vaccinations: Proof of a valid anti-rabies vaccination (administered at least 21 days prior to travel).
• Health Certificate: Required for non-EU travel, certifying the animal is fit to fly.

Service Costs

Fees for pet travel are charged per direction and depend on the weight of the animal and the route.

• In-Cabin Fee: Approximately €35 to €65 depending on the route.
• Cargo Hold Fee: Approximately €60 to €100+ depending on weight and destination.
• Note: Prices are subject to change and may vary for connecting international flights.

Preparation Tips

• Acclimatization: Let your pet spend time in their carrier days before the flight to reduce stress.
• Feeding: Feed your pet a light meal about 4 hours before departure; avoid feeding right before the flight to prevent nausea.
• Comfort: Place an absorbent mat at the bottom of the carrier.
• Hydration: Ensure the pet is well-hydrated, but remove water bowls inside the crate just before boarding to prevent spills.

Restrictions

• Brachycephalic Breeds: Snub-nosed cats and dogs (e.g., Pugs, Bulldogs, Persians) may be restricted from the cargo hold due to respiratory risks.
• Prohibited Animals: Rodents, reptiles, and other exotic animals are generally not accepted in the cabin.
• Behavior: Aggressive animals or those that appear sedated may be refused transport.
• Exceptions: Certified service animals travel free of charge in the cabin, provided all safety requirements are met.

Important: Travel regulations and aircraft capacities can change. It is strongly recommended to contact Olympic Air or Aegean Airlines reservations directly to confirm availability and specific requirements for your route before purchasing your ticket.

Miles+Bonus Loyalty Program

Olympic Air shares its loyalty scheme, Miles+Bonus, with its parent company, Aegean Airlines. This award-winning program is designed to reward frequent flyers with a wide range of benefits, ensuring that every journey—from a short domestic hop to an international connection—counts towards exclusive privileges and travel rewards.

Membership Tiers

The program is structured into three distinct levels, each offering progressively higher value and recognition. Members move up the tiers by earning Tier Miles within a 12-month period.

• Blue: The entry-level tier where new members start. Benefits include earning miles on flights and partners, as well as the ability to pool miles with friends or family in a "Together" account.
• Silver: Achieved after frequent travel, this tier offers perks such as complimentary seat selection, access to business lounges (via digital coupons), and increased baggage allowance on specific fares.
• Gold: The premier tier providing top-level services, including priority check-in and boarding, access to Club Lounges for the member and a guest, 48-hour guaranteed seat availability, and Star Alliance Gold recognition globally.

Earning Miles

Accumulating miles is straightforward and extends far beyond just flying. Tier Miles determine your status, while Award Miles can be saved for redemption.

• Flights: Earn miles on every flight operated by Olympic Air, Aegean Airlines, and all Star Alliance member carriers.
• Partners: Accumulate miles when booking stays with partner hotels, renting cars, or using designated airport transfer services.
• Everyday Purchases: Earn miles through co-branded credit cards and by shopping at a wide network of retail, dining, and lifestyle partners.
• Online Booking: Bonus miles are often awarded for services purchased directly through the official digital channels.

Redeeming Miles

Miles+Bonus offers flexible redemption options, allowing travelers to use their accrued Award Miles for substantial savings and experiences.

• Award Flights: Redeem miles for free tickets on Olympic Air, Aegean, or any Star Alliance airline network.
• Seat Upgrades: Use miles to upgrade from Economy to Business Class on eligible flights.
• Partner Rewards: Exchange miles for free car rentals, hotel stays, or shopping vouchers.
• Donations: Members can also choose to donate their miles to select charities supported by the program.

Star Alliance Membership

Through its integration with Aegean Airlines, Olympic Air connects its passengers to the Star Alliance network, the world's largest airline alliance.

• Global Reach: Benefits extend to travel with major carriers like Lufthansa, United Airlines, Turkish Airlines, and Singapore Airlines.
• Seamless Travel: Gold members enjoy consistent privileges like lounge access and priority baggage handling across the entire alliance network.

How to Join

Joining Miles+Bonus is free, simple, and provides immediate value for travelers planning a trip to Greece.

• Registration: Sign up via the official website or the mobile app to receive a digital membership card instantly.
• Welcome Bonus: New members typically receive a welcome bonus of 1,000 Award Miles upon registration to kickstart their journey.

Flying with Olympic Air offers a unique regional experience tailored to the stunning geography of Greece. As the airline primarily operates a fleet of ATR turboprop aircraft for island hopping, the onboard atmosphere is intimate and efficient. Whether you are connecting from a long-haul flight arriving in Athens or taking a quick trip between islands, the service is designed to be comfortable and distinctively Greek.

Service Classes

Unlike large international carriers with three or four cabin classes, Olympic Air’s regional flights typically feature a streamlined two-class or single-cabin service, depending on the route and aircraft configuration. However, fare bundles provide varying levels of flexibility and ground privileges.

• Economy Class: The standard offering on all domestic flights. Passengers can choose from different fare families (Light, Flex, and ComfortFlex) which dictate baggage allowance and ticket flexibility. Regardless of the fare type, all Economy passengers enjoy the same comfortable seating and inflight service.
• Business Class: Available on select domestic routes connecting major hubs like Thessaloniki and Rhodes. Travelers in this class enjoy premium benefits such as priority check-in, access to business lounges (where available), increased baggage allowance, and seating at the front of the aircraft for quicker disembarkation.

Seat Configuration and Comfort

The Olympic Air fleet consists exclusively of ATR 42 and ATR 72 turboprop aircraft, perfectly suited for landing on the short runways of islands like Milos, Naxos, and Paros.

• Layout: The cabin features a 2-2 configuration, meaning every passenger has either a window or an aisle seat—there are no middle seats on these flights.
• Space: The leather seats are designed for short-haul comfort with standard legroom. Overhead bins on these aircraft are smaller than on jets, so larger carry-on items are often collected at the aircraft steps and returned immediately upon landing ("Delivery at Aircraft").

In-Flight Dining

Despite the short duration of most flights—often ranging from 25 to 50 minutes—Olympic Air maintains a reputation for generous hospitality.

• Economy: Passengers are typically served a complimentary snack (such as a croissant, cookie, or cereal bar) along with a choice of water, juice, or coffee.
• Business: On longer sectors or business-designated routes, passengers may be offered a more substantial cold meal or premium snack, accompanied by a wider selection of beverages, including soft drinks and wine.

Entertainment and Connectivity

Given the regional nature of the flights, there are no seatback screens or Wi-Fi connectivity on board. The primary "entertainment" is often the breathtaking view of the Aegean Sea and the Greek archipelago from the window. Passengers are encouraged to bring their own reading material or download content to their devices prior to boarding. The airline’s inflight magazine, Blue, is also available, featuring travel stories and guides to destinations like Zakynthos and Karpathos.

Special Services

Olympic Air is dedicated to making travel accessible and convenient for all passengers, ensuring seamless connections for those arriving from international destinations.

• Families and Children: Families traveling with infants can request special seat belts. Strollers are carried free of charge and are usually returned at the aircraft door upon arrival.
• Unaccompanied Minors: A dedicated service is available for children traveling alone, providing supervision from the check-in counter until they are handed over to the designated guardian at the destination.
• Passengers with Reduced Mobility (PRM): Assistance is available at all airports. Since regional aircraft connect to remote islands, some airports may use ramps or lifts for boarding. Passengers requiring wheelchair assistance should request this at least 48 hours in advance to ensure the necessary ground support is ready.

Olympic Air operates a comprehensive network of domestic routes, primarily managed from its main hub in Athens. The airline serves as a vital connector for travelers wishing to explore the Greek islands and mainland regions, offering frequent flights to destinations such as Paros, Milos, and Zakynthos.

Planning a trip with Olympic Air opens up a world of opportunities to explore the stunning Greek islands and mainland destinations. To secure the best possible fares, it is highly recommended to book your tickets well in advance, especially if you plan to travel during the peak summer months. Routes connecting the main hub in Athens to popular islands like Paros and Milos fill up quickly, so reserving your seat a few months ahead can often result in lower prices compared to last-minute bookings.

Keep an eye out for special deals and promotions by subscribing to the airline's newsletter or regularly checking their official website. Flexible travel dates can also be a significant advantage; flying mid-week often offers better rates than weekends. If you are connecting through major cities like Thessaloniki, look for bundled offers or multi-city itineraries that might reduce the overall cost of your journey.

To make your airport experience as smooth as possible, take advantage of the online check-in services. This feature typically becomes available 48 hours before departure, allowing you to choose your seat and download your boarding pass directly to your mobile device. Using the Olympic Air mobile app not only simplifies this process but also keeps you updated with real-time flight status notifications and gate changes.

When it comes to seat selection, choosing a window seat is a must for those flying to scenic destinations like Zakynthos or Rhodes. The aerial views of the Aegean Sea and the scattered islands are truly breathtaking. While seat selection may sometimes incur a small fee depending on your fare class, the experience of watching the Greek landscape unfold beneath you is often worth the extra cost.

Finally, always consider purchasing comprehensive travel insurance before your trip. Unforeseen events such as flight delays, cancellations due to weather, or lost luggage can happen, and having insurance ensures you are protected financially. This simple step adds a layer of security to your travel plans, letting you focus on enjoying your Greek adventure with peace of mind.

The Golden Age of Travel

The story of the airline began in 1957 when shipping magnate Aristotle Onassis acquired the failing state carrier and rebranded it as Olympic Airways. Under his leadership, the airline became synonymous with luxury and style, entering the jet age with de Havilland Comet 4B aircraft. During the 1960s and 70s, the carrier expanded its network globally, connecting Athens to major capitals across five continents and serving as a proud ambassador of Greek culture worldwide.

Nationalization and Transition

Following the Onassis era, the airline returned to state ownership in the mid-1970s. For decades, it served as the national flag carrier, operating a diverse fleet that included the iconic Boeing 747 "Jumbo Jets" for long-haul routes. However, the turning of the millennium brought significant changes. In 2009, the company was privatized and relaunched as Olympic Air. This marked a strategic shift, moving away from intercontinental operations to focus intensely on regional leadership and domestic connectivity.

A New Era with Aegean

A pivotal moment in the airline's modern history occurred in 2013 when it was acquired by Aegean Airlines. This merger created a unified and robust Greek aviation group. While Aegean took over the international network, Olympic Air was entrusted with a vital mission: ensuring the accessibility of the Greek periphery. This synergy allowed for better scheduling, shared resources, and a seamless travel experience for passengers connecting through Thessaloniki and other hubs.

Fleet Evolution

The airline's fleet has undergone a dramatic transformation to suit its changing role. From the wide-body jets of the past, the focus shifted to efficient turboprops capable of navigating the challenging topography of the Greek islands. For a period, the airline operated Bombardier Q400s, but today, the fleet has been standardized with modern ATR 42 and ATR 72 aircraft. These planes are perfectly designed for short runways, allowing the carrier to maintain essential lifelines to destinations like Zakynthos and remote islets.

Modern Innovations

Today, Olympic Air stands at the forefront of regional aviation innovation. Integrated fully with the Star Alliance network through its parent company, it offers passengers advanced digital services, including mobile boarding passes and real-time flight tracking. The airline continues to open up new travel possibilities, ensuring that even the smallest islands remain connected to the global grid, welcoming visitors to explore the beauty of Rhodes and beyond with safety and reliability.