A new all-helicopter-aircraft airline has launched in Greece, aiming to fill the void that exists on islands with no airports.
Named Hoper, the new helicopter airline will operate scheduled flights on a fixed timetable with routes and departure times from Athens to the several Aegean Islands, including Antiparos, Ios, Kea, Patmos, Sifnos and Tinos.
One-way fares start at €160 to 350 (approximately $171 to $375) depending on the destination. Travelers can simply book one seat without needing to charter the entire helicopter, making the form of travel more accessible to a wider range of passengers, according to Dimitris Kossyfas, chief commercial officer of Hoper.
The flights, operated with glass-cockpit Robinson R44 and R66 helicopters, will originate from its base in Koropi, Athens, which is only 15 minutes drive from Athens International Airport, as well as from Mykonos and Santorini, to other islands. Hoper also operates chartered flights on a request basis for passengers whose plans may not align with scheduled routes.
Founded by three Greek entrepreneurs and travel enthusiasts Dimitris Memos, Costas Gerardos and George Papaioannidis, Hoper aims to offer fast, comfortable and safe travel to Greece’s most popular destinations in the Aegean Islands. The company plans to add new destinations in the mainland later this year.
The company prioritizes safety, convenience and innovation. As part of this commitment, Hoper upgraded all the existing helipads in the destinations it serves.
