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Sky Express (legally Cretan Aviation Operations Aviation and Commercial Société Anonyme) is a Greek airline headquartered at Heraklion International Airport, Crete, Greece. Established in 2005, it has grown to become Greece’s leading airline in domestic connectivity, operating the largest network of domestic destinations in the country and an expanding international network. Known for its commitment to affordable, reliable, and sustainable air travel, Sky Express serves as a vital link for Greece’s island and mainland communities, while also connecting Greece to key international destinations. With a modern fleet, innovative practices, and a focus on customer experience, Sky Express is redefining aviation in Greece and beyond.
Sky Express was founded in early 2005 by Miltiadis Tsagkarakis, a former Olympic Airlines director general and pilot, and George Mavrantonakis, former chief operating officer and accountable manager at Olympic Airlines. Operations commenced in July 2005, initially focusing on scheduled, charter, cargo, air taxi, emergency medical services, and sightseeing flights. The airline was established to address the need for reliable air connectivity to Greece’s many islands, particularly those underserved by larger carriers.
The airline’s initial logo, inspired by the flag of the Cretan State (a semi-independent state under the Ottoman Empire), featured a white cross with a red upper-hoist canton and a white star. However, this design faced criticism, particularly from Cretans, due to its association with a controversial pseudo-independence movement. Following public feedback, Sky Express changed its logo to a more neutral design, reflecting its commitment to inclusivity and customer sentiment.
In 2018, Sky Express achieved a milestone by carrying 1 million passengers for the first time, signaling its growing prominence in the Greek aviation market. The airline has since expanded its operations significantly, modernizing its fleet and extending its reach internationally.
Sky Express operates Greece’s youngest and most environmentally friendly fleet, consisting of 27 aircraft as of November 2024. The fleet includes:
In October 2020, Sky Express placed a firm order for four Airbus A320neo aircraft, introducing a sleek new design for its Airbus fleet. The addition of two A321neo aircraft in 2023 further solidified its commitment to sustainability, as these aircraft contribute to a reduced carbon footprint through advanced fuel-efficient technology. The airline’s ATR 72-600s are particularly suited for short island-hopping flights, offering efficiency and reliability for Greece’s unique geography. Sky Express’s focus on sustainability has earned it the Innovation Airline Award from the European Regions Airline Association (ERA) for two consecutive years (2023 and 2024).