About DI
DI operates as a regional carrier punching above its weight in the German leisure market. With 70 non-stop routes spread across 20 airports and a total network spanning over 172,000 km, this isn't a tiny operation — but it's also not trying to be Lufthansa. The network tells you exactly what DI is about: sun, beach, and affordable point-to-point flying. Germany dominates the route map with 35 routes, while Greece and Spain each claim 15. Hamburg (HAM) anchors the whole thing as the main hub with 14 departures, making it the airport where DI's operation genuinely concentrates. Think of DI as a leisure-focused airline built around German travelers heading south. That's not a criticism — it's a business model that works when executed well.
Why fly DI?
The honest case for DI comes down to route access and simplicity. If you're sitting in Hamburg, Nuremberg (NUE), or Leipzig/Halle (LEJ) and want to reach the Greek islands or the Spanish coast without connecting through a major hub, DI is frequently your best or only direct option. That's genuinely valuable — positioning flights through Frankfurt or Munich to reach CFU adds hours and cost that eat into any savings. The longest route, SPC to HAM at 3,579 km, shows DI can handle real distance, not just short hops. For travelers who hate layovers and want to land close to their actual destination, that matters. Leisure routes also tend to price competitively during off-peak windows, so booking 6-8 weeks out often rewards patience with strong fares.
DI hub airports
- HAM Hamburg — 14 DI routes from Germany
- NUE Nuremberg — 11 DI routes from Germany
- LEJ Leipzig/Halle — 10 DI routes from Germany
- CFU Kerkyra — 3 DI routes from Greece
- LPA Las Palmas — 3 DI routes from Spain
Top destination countries on DI
- Germany — 35 DI routes
- Greece — 15 DI routes
- Spain — 15 DI routes
- Portugal — 3 DI routes
- Morocco — 1 DI routes
- Italy — 1 DI routes
Tips for booking DI
Book directly and check fare conditions carefully — leisure carriers often bundle or unbundle bags differently across ticket tiers, and the cheap headline fare can flip expensive fast if you're not reading the fine print. HAM is your best bet for schedule frequency and options; with 14 routes, you'll find more flexibility there than at smaller hubs like CFU, which only runs 3 routes. If you're not based near a DI hub, factor in your positioning flight cost before assuming DI beats a connecting itinerary on total price. Greece and Spain routes are where DI's network is genuinely competitive, so start your search there first.
Frequently asked questions about DI
Where does DI airline fly?
DI operates 70 routes primarily connecting major cities across Europe, with a strong focus on Germany, Greece, and Spain. The airline serves key destinations throughout these regions, making it ideal for travel within Southern and Central Europe.
What is DI's main hub airport?
Hamburg (HAM) is DI's primary hub, serving as the central connection point for most of the airline's European network. This strategic location in northern Germany makes it a convenient hub for flights across the continent.
Is DI a low-cost, legacy, or regional carrier?
Based on its network of 70 routes and regional focus on Central and Southern Europe, DI operates as a regional carrier. The airline specializes in point-to-point connections rather than operating as a full-service legacy network.
When should I book flights with DI, and what fare classes are available?
For the best fares, book DI flights 4-6 weeks in advance, particularly for popular routes to Greece and Spain. The airline typically offers multiple fare classes ranging from basic economy to premium options, allowing flexibility based on your travel needs and budget.
What are DI's baggage allowance and check-in procedures?
Baggage allowances and check-in requirements vary by fare class and route, so it's best to confirm specific details when booking. Passengers can typically check in online 24 hours before departure or at the airport, with standard baggage policies varying based on ticket type.