What is the difference between Aegean and Olympic Airlines?

Understanding the difference between Aegean and Olympic Airlines

When it comes to flying within Greece, two popular airline options are Aegean and Olympic Airlines. Both brands operate from the Aegean Airlines Group’s main hub at Athens International Airport, but they have distinct differences that are important to understand before booking your next flight. In this article, we will explore the key differences between Aegean and Olympic Airlines to help you make an informed decision when planning your next trip.

 

1. Flight Routes

One of the most obvious differences between Aegean and Olympic Airlines is the types of routes they offer. Aegean is a full-service carrier that operates both international and domestic flights, as well as charter services. This means that they have a wide range of destinations to choose from, including popular destinations such as London, Paris, and Istanbul.

On the other hand, Olympic Airlines is a regional carrier that provides purely domestic services. This means that they only operate flights within Greece. While this may limit your destination options, it also means that Olympic Airlines has a strong focus on connecting regional destinations within Greece. They cover many destinations around the country, such as Thessaloniki, Crete, and Rhodes.

2. In-flight Services

Another key difference between Aegean and Olympic Airlines is the level of in-flight services they offer. As a full-service carrier, Aegean offers a wide range of in-flight amenities and services to its passengers. They have a variety of classes to choose from, including economy, premium economy, and business class. Passengers can expect to find a selection of hot and cold appetizers, main courses, and desserts, as well as a variety of beverages. The airline also offers a “dine on demand” service, allowing passengers to order meals at any time during the flight.

On the other hand, Olympic Airlines’ in-flight services are more limited in comparison. They offer economy class service only. The in-flight services are more basic, with less variety of food and drinks options.

3. Loyalty Programs

Aegean and Olympic Airlines also differ in the loyalty programs they offer. Aegean is a member of the Star Alliance, one of the world’s largest airline alliances. This means that passengers can earn miles and redeem them for flights, upgrades, and other rewards on any of the Star Alliance member airlines. Additionally, Aegean has its own frequent flyer program, Miles+Bonus, which allows passengers to earn miles and redeem them for flights and upgrades on Aegean and Olympic Airlines flights.

Olympic Airlines, on the other hand, does not have any loyalty program.

4. Prices and Fare Types

When it comes to prices and fare types, there are some differences between Aegean and Olympic Airlines. As a full-service carrier, Aegean tends to have higher ticket prices compared to Olympic Airlines. This is to be expected, as they offer a wider range of services and amenities. However, Aegean also offers a variety of fare types, such as basic, light, and flex, which allow passengers to choose the level of services they want to pay for.

Olympic Airlines, as a regional carrier, generally has lower ticket prices. However, their fare types are not as varied as Aegean’s.

5. Cabin Crew and Ground Services

Aegean and Olympic Airlines also differ in the quality of their cabin crew and ground services. As a full-service carrier, Aegean places a strong emphasis on providing high-quality customer service. Their cabin crew is well-trained and attentive to the needs of their passengers. Additionally, the airline offers a variety of ground services, such as baggage handling and check-in, to ensure that passengers have a smooth and stress-free experience.

Olympic Airlines, as a regional carrier, may not have the same level of customer service as Aegean. They may have less experienced crew or fewer ground services.

6. Fleet and On-Time Performance

Another difference between Aegean and Olympic Airlines is their fleet and on-time performance. Aegean has a modern and well-maintained fleet of aircraft, which includes Airbus and Bombardier aircraft. The airline also has a strong on-time performance record, which means that their flights are less likely to be delayed or cancelled.

Olympic Airlines, on the other hand, has an older fleet of aircraft and may not have the same level of on-time performance as Aegean. This could mean that their flights are more likely to be delayed or cancelled.

7. Special Assistance

Aegean and Olympic Airlines also differ in their policies and services for passengers with special needs. Aegean has a dedicated Special Assistance Team that is trained to assist passengers with disabilities, special medical needs, and other special requirements. They offer a variety of services, such as wheelchair assistance, special meal requests, and pre-boarding assistance.

Olympic Airlines, on the other hand, may not have the same level of special assistance services as Aegean.

8. Online Booking and Check-In

When it comes to online booking and check-in, Aegean and Olympic Airlines also have some differences. Aegean has a user-friendly website and mobile app that allows passengers to easily book and manage their flights. They also offer online check-in, which allows passengers to check-in for their flight and print their boarding pass from the comfort of their own home.

Olympic Airlines’ website and mobile app may not be as user-friendly as Aegean’s and they may not have the same level of online services.

9. Baggage Allowance

Aegean and Olympic Airlines also have different baggage allowance policies. Aegean’s baggage allowance varies depending on the route and fare type, but they generally allow passengers to bring one carry-on bag and one checked bag, with the option to purchase additional baggage. They also have more generous checked baggage allowances for business and premium economy class passengers.

Olympic Airlines’ baggage allowance may be more restrictive and less generous than Aegean’s.

10. In-flight Entertainment

Finally, Aegean and Olympic Airlines also differ in the level of in-flight entertainment they offer. Aegean has a variety of entertainment options, such as movies, TV shows, music, and games, that are available on their in-flight entertainment system. They also offer in-flight Wi-Fi for passengers to stay connected during the flight.

Olympic Airlines’ in-flight entertainment options may be more limited and may not include as many options as Aegean’s.