AEGEAN closed 2024 with a new passenger traffic record, carrying 16.3 million passengers, a number increased by 6% compared to 2023. Despite operational and geopolitical challenges, the company managed to offer over 19.7 million seats, 1.1 million more than the previous year, further strengthening its position as the leading airline in Greece.
One of AEGEAN’s most important growth areas is Thessaloniki, where the company continues to strengthen its presence, increasing both the connectivity and the dynamics of the “Macedonia” airport. In 2024, AEGEAN carried over 2.7 million passengers to and from Thessaloniki, a 6% increase compared to 2023. In particular, international traffic recorded an 8% increase, confirming that the city is establishing itself as a destination for travelers from abroad.
New routes and increased connectivity
AEGEAN is investing dynamically in Thessaloniki, doubling international connections since 2019 and continuously adding new domestic routes. For 2025, the company plans to offer 3.3 million seats from its base at Macedonia Airport, with a capacity increase mainly coming from international flights (+6%). As part of this strategy, the launch of two new direct routes was announced:
Thessaloniki – Syros, from the first week of June
Thessaloniki – Izmir, as soon as the necessary approvals are received from the aviation authorities
In parallel, the company is increasing the frequency of flights to and from Frankfurt, while maintaining direct flights to Paris, Milan and Tel Aviv. Also, for the summer season of 2025, an additional weekly flight to Brussels is being added (4 in total).
Thessaloniki as a growing hub
AEGEAN’s strategy for Thessaloniki is not limited only to increasing routes but also includes long-term investment planning. AEGEAN CEO Dimitris Gerogiannis, speaking at a recent conference in Thessaloniki, stressed that the company consistently supports the destination, investing in its tourism and business development:
“AEGEAN has served Thessaloniki with great consistency for many years. We believed in its prospects when almost no one else did and we are particularly happy to see the city gaining the place it deserves on the highly competitive tourism map.”
This commitment is also reflected in the data for the first two months of 2025, where international passenger traffic appears to have increased by 6%, an indication that the city continues its growth path even in periods of low demand.
AEGEAN plans to further invest in the “Macedonia” airport, capitalizing on the city’s potential and strengthening its connectivity with markets that are of strategic importance for tourism and business. The company works closely with local bodies and the State to promote Thessaloniki in international markets, through joint marketing and tourism promotion actions.
Challenges and prospects
Despite the challenges faced by the aviation industry due to international crises and economic uncertainties, AEGEAN remains committed to developing its presence in Thessaloniki. With targeted actions, investments, and partnerships, the company is making a decisive contribution to establishing the city as an important air connection hub in Southeastern Europe.
The continuous growth of passenger traffic and the expansion of AEGEAN’s routes confirm that Thessaloniki has the potential to establish itself as a dynamic international destination, connecting Greece with the largest foreign markets and strengthening its role as a tourist and business center.
At the same time, AEGEAN continues to invest in its fleet. On March 14, it announced that it had ordered 8 additional new A321 neo aircraft, extending again, for the third time, the initial agreement it has concluded with Airbus.
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