Quick verdict
Aeroflot Russian Airlines and Sky Express have distinct offerings that cater to different traveler needs. Aeroflot provides a full-service experience with a wider price range, larger fleet size, and stronger global alliance through SkyTeam, making it suitable for business and frequent travelers seeking comfort and amenities. In contrast, Sky Express, with a focus on low-cost operations, appeals to budget-conscious travelers, offering competitive pricing but limited cabin classes and no airport lounges. Families may find greater value in Aeroflot's baggage allowance and in-flight services, while solo budget travelers or those on short trips may prefer the lower fees and simplicity of Sky Express.
At a glance
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Aeroflot Russian Airlines and Sky Express are two prominent international carriers, each representing its region with strong global connectivity and a focus on premium service. This comparison highlights their key strengths to help travelers make informed decisions.
About Aeroflot – Russian Airlines Read more
Overview
Aeroflot – Russian Airlines is the flag carrier of Russia. According to Wikipedia, it was founded on 25 February 1932 and is headquartered in Moscow. It is the parent of the Aeroflot Group, which also includes Rossiya Airlines and the low-cost carrier Pobeda. Aeroflot was a SkyTeam member from 2006, but its membership was suspended on 27 April 2022 following the Russian invasion of Ukraine.
Network and hubs
The main hub is Moscow Sheremetyevo. Wikipedia also lists Krasnoyarsk International and Saint Petersburg as hubs, with focus cities including Irkutsk, Khabarovsk, Sochi, Vladivostok and Yekaterinburg. The Group served 104 destinations according to the same source. The Group carried 55.34 million passengers in 2025, essentially flat on the previous year, with international traffic growing. Western sanctions and airspace closures have restricted its international network since 2022.
Fleet
The mainline fleet uses Airbus A320 family, A330 and A350 aircraft and Boeing 737 and 777 aircraft. Wikipedia gives 171 aircraft excluding subsidiaries (112 Airbus and 59 Boeing); the date of this figure is not stated. The Aeroflot Group as a whole was reported at 352 aircraft at the end of 2025, including three wet-leased. The airline plans to introduce the Yakovlev MC-21, with deliveries expected from 2027.
On board
- Cabins: Economy, Comfort and Business, depending on aircraft and route.
- Seat pitch, meals, entertainment and Wi-Fi: not confirmed from the sources consulted; check the Aeroflot website for the specific aircraft and fare.
Good to know
- Baggage: third-party sources (for example Deep Arrival, updated June 2026) report a 10 kg cabin bag in Economy and Comfort and 15 kg in Business. Most Economy fares include one 23 kg checked bag, while Business includes two bags of up to 32 kg. The cheapest fares may be cabin-bag only. Confirm with the airline before travel.
- Loyalty: the programme is Aeroflot Bonus, which has four levels.
- Sanctions: flights to and from Russia are restricted for many travellers because of sanctions, airspace closures and government travel advice. Check current rules before booking.
About SKY express Read more
Overview
SKY express (legally Cretan Aviation Operations) is a Greek airline headquartered at Heraklion International Airport. According to Wikipedia, it was established in 2005 by former Olympic Airlines executives and began operations in July 2005. It is not a member of an airline alliance. Note that its IATA code is GQ (not G3), with ICAO code SEH and call sign AIR CRETE.
Network and hubs
Operating bases are Athens, Heraklion and Thessaloniki. The ERAA member profile describes it as Greece's leading airline for domestic connectivity, with 33 Greek and 22 international destinations. Wikipedia lists 55 destinations in total. Domestic routes link the mainland with many islands, and international routes run to Europe and Cyprus.
Fleet
Wikipedia gives a fleet of 29 aircraft. A May 2024 report listed 27 aircraft: 2 Airbus A321neo, 10 A320neo, 1 A320ceo, 10 ATR 72-600 and 4 ATR 72-500. The turboprops serve shorter island routes; Airbus jets fly the busier domestic and international routes.
On board
- Economy fares: SKY Basic, SKY Joy, SKY Joy+ and SKY Enjoy.
- Business fares (Bliss, Bliss+) are sold only on routes flown by Airbus aircraft, such as Athens to Thessaloniki, Heraklion, Chania and Rhodes. Bliss+ includes a vacant middle seat and a welcome selection of cold canapés.
- Seat pitch, entertainment, Wi-Fi and meal details were not confirmed in the sources reviewed.
Good to know
- Baggage: the fare page shows basic fares with one 8 kg cabin bag plus a personal item. SKY Enjoy adds a 23 kg checked bag. Bliss+ allows a 13 kg cabin bag and two 32 kg checked bags.
- Changes: higher fares allow changes with the fare difference, and same-day changes to an earlier flight are free on some fares. Bookings via the call centre or airport offices carry a 10 EUR per person service fee.
- Lounges: SKY Executive Lounge in Athens, Heraklion and Thessaloniki is included with Bliss, Bliss+ and Enjoy fares.
- Infants: children aged 0 to 2 travel on a parent's lap at a 90% discount on the adult fare.
- Check the official website for current fares and rules, which vary by route and fare type.
Ranking
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