Aegean raises seat availability by 6-7 percent

Aegean Airlines may have its sights fixed on this summer season, but it is also making long-term plans that will give the carrier increased flexibility.

Oversubscribing the bond it issued early last month is one of the weapons in its management's arsenal, strengthening the firm's negotiating position as it discussed the funding of the new aircraft delivery with its creditors.

Competition with foreign carriers has peaked, meanwhile, leading certain players to leave the country. Aegean's main rivals in the domestic market are Sky Express and Volotea, with the latter strengthening its presence, while Ryanair has been forced to depart. However, shifts in the country's tourism trends point to a different year.

"We maintain some optimism for the upcoming summer season," Aegean's chief executive officer, Dimitris Gerogiannis, tells Kathimerini. "It is certain that the...