Iberia Express

Iberia Express is a dynamic and modern division of Spain's flagship carrier, successfully combining the affordability of a low-cost airline with the high service standards of traditional airlines. Based in the heart of the country, the airline serves as a key link, providing convenient connections and direct flights to the most sought-after destinations. For travelers, this is an excellent opportunity to enjoy Spanish hospitality even before arriving at their destination, without overpaying for a ticket.

History and Positioning
The airline was founded in 2012 with the goal of providing efficient short- and medium-haul transport, feeding the long-haul network of its parent company, Iberia. Since then, Iberia Express has established itself as one of the most successful budget carriers in Europe. Unlike many low-cost airlines, the company offers a full Business Class on its flights and is part of the Oneworld alliance (as an affiliate member), allowing passengers to enjoy loyalty program privileges.

Flight Geography
The airline's route network is built around its hub in Madrid. Particular attention is paid to domestic flights to resort destinations: the carrier's aircraft fly regularly to the Canary Islands (to Santa Cruz de Tenerife, Las Palmas, Arrecife) and the Balearic Islands (to Palma and Ibiza). Additionally, the airline actively flies to major European cities such as London, Berlin, Amsterdam, Copenhagen, Dublin, and Manchester. Popular destinations in North Africa and the Middle East are also served, including Marrakesh, Cairo, and Tel Aviv.

Fleet and Safety
The Iberia Express fleet consists exclusively of Airbus family aircraft—models A320 and A321, including modern Neo modifications, which feature increased fuel efficiency and reduced noise levels. Flight safety is an absolute priority: as part of the IAG group, the airline adheres to the strictest international standards of maintenance and operational activity.

Achievements
One of the company's main points of pride is its punctuality. Iberia Express has been repeatedly recognized as the most punctual low-cost airline in Europe and the world by independent analytical agencies (such as FlightGlobal/Cirium). This makes it a reliable choice for those who value their time and plan complex connecting itineraries.

Contacting Iberia Express representatives is quite simple, as the airline actively develops digital service channels. Passengers can promptly resolve issues regarding booking, check-in, or baggage via the official website, mobile apps, or the 24-hour contact center.

Official Website
www.iberiaexpress.com

Contact Details

• Official Website: iberiaexpress.com — the main source of information and booking management.
• Customer Support (International): +34 91 904 63 42 (available in Spanish and English).
• Ticket Booking: +34 91 333 67 01 (general Iberia Group line) or via the website.
• Email: For inquiries, it is recommended to use the feedback form on the website ("Contact" section). Direct requests are also accepted at contactcenter@iberiaexpress.com (response times may vary).
• Mobile App: "Iberia Express" (available on App Store and Google Play) or the main "Iberia" app for managing connecting flights.

Social Media
The airline maintains active pages on social networks, where it publishes news and answers passenger questions:

• Facebook: facebook.com/iberiaexpress
• Twitter (X): @iberiaexpress
• Instagram: @iberiaexpress

Offices and Representation
As Iberia Express is a Spanish carrier, its physical presence is concentrated in Spain.

• Head Office: Calle Alcañiz 23, 28042 Madrid, Spain.
• Airport Counters: Main service counters are located at Madrid-Barajas Airport (Terminal 4), which is the company's home hub. At other airports, look for counters with the Iberia / Iberia Express logo or Oneworld alliance partner counters.

24/7 Support
The customer service call center (+34 91 904 63 42) operates 24 hours a day, 7 days a week, providing assistance in emergency situations, flight delays, or baggage loss.

Please note: contact details and phone numbers may change. We recommend checking the latest information in the "Contact Us" section on the official website before calling.

Proper baggage preparation is the key to a stress-free start to your journey. Iberia Express, as part of the Iberia Group, adheres to high service standards, but as a budget division, it has specific features in its fare structure. To avoid unnecessary expenses at the airport, it is important to familiarize yourself with baggage allowances in advance.

Cabin Baggage: Take the essentials on board

The airline's policy regarding cabin baggage is quite generous. Regardless of the fare, each passenger is generally allowed to take on board:

• One suitcase or bag of standard size (maximum dimensions 56x40x25 cm). These measurements must include handles, pockets, and wheels.
• One personal accessory (40x30x15 cm), such as a handbag, laptop briefcase, or small backpack. This item must fit freely under the seat in front of you.

Pay attention to the weight: for Economy Class, the standard limit is 10 kg, and for Business Class, it is 14 kg. On heavily booked flights, for example, if you are flying to popular London or other major European cities, overhead bin space may run out. In this case, your cabin bag may be taken to the cargo hold free of charge at the boarding gate.

Checked Baggage: Choose your weight

Checked baggage allowances depend on your chosen fare. The cheapest fares (often labeled as Express) usually include only cabin baggage. If you need a suitcase, it is most cost-effective to add it when purchasing your ticket online.

The standard weight for one piece of baggage is 23 kg. However, Iberia Express offers a flexible system: you can pre-pay for a 15 kg bag (for short trips) or 32 kg (for long journeys). The maximum allowable weight for a single piece of baggage cannot exceed 32 kg due to occupational health and safety rules for handlers.

Excess Baggage and Fees

If your suitcase weighs more than the pre-paid allowance (e.g., 25 kg instead of 23 kg), you will have to pay a fixed fee for each extra kilogram at the airport. If you plan to bring many items, it is highly recommended to pay for extra weight or an additional bag via the airline's website in advance—this can be up to 50% cheaper than paying at the check-in counter, especially at the base hub—the city of Madrid.

Special Baggage: Sports and Music

Spain is an ideal destination for active holidays, so transporting sports equipment is very popular.

• Sports Equipment: Bicycles, surfing gear, golf clubs, or diving equipment are transported for a separate fee unless included in your fare. This is particularly relevant for travelers heading to the Canary Islands, for example, to Las Palmas or Tenerife. Equipment must be securely packed.
• Musical Instruments: Small instruments (cabin baggage size) can be taken into the cabin. For large instruments (e.g., a cello), a separate seat in the cabin must be booked. Bulky instruments are checked into baggage marked "fragile" and require a hard case.

Prohibited and Restricted Items

For safety reasons, it is strictly forbidden to transport explosives, flammable liquids, and compressed gases in any type of baggage. There are special rules for electronics:

• Power Banks and spare lithium batteries can be carried only in cabin baggage. Checking them into the hold is prohibited.
• Electronic cigarettes must also be kept in a pocket or cabin baggage.
• Liquids in cabin baggage are limited to containers up to 100 ml, packed in a single transparent bag with a capacity of no more than 1 liter.

Packing Tips for Iberia Express Passengers

To ensure a smooth flight, follow a few simple recommendations. First, always weigh your suitcase at home before leaving to avoid stress at the check-in counter. Second, be sure to attach a tag with your name, phone number, and email address to your luggage. Third, if you are flying with a connection, ensure your luggage is checked through to the final destination. For example, when flying from Berlin to Palma with a connection in Madrid, the suitcase is most often transferred automatically, but clarifying this at the check-in counter is never a bad idea.

Iberia Express understands that pets are part of the family and offers convenient options for their transport. The airline allows travel with cats, dogs, turtles, and birds both in the aircraft cabin and in the cargo hold, while observing strict safety and comfort standards. It is important to remember that the number of spaces for animals on each flight is limited, so the service must be booked in advance (at least 48 hours before departure).

Transport Options

In the Cabin (Cabin Baggage)

This option is suitable for small pets that can travel at your feet without inconveniencing neighbors. This is the most popular method of transport on short flights, for example, from Madrid to other European cities.

• Carrier Dimensions: The maximum dimensions of the container must not exceed 45x35x25 cm (sum of three dimensions up to 105 cm).
• Maximum Weight: Up to 8 kg (total weight of the animal together with the carrier).
• Permitted Animals: Dogs, cats, birds (except birds of prey), turtles.
• Container Requirements: The carrier must be ventilated, secure, and have a waterproof bottom. The animal must fit completely inside.
• Limit: Usually, no more than one container per passenger is allowed.
• Important Exception: On flights to/from the UK (e.g., to London or Manchester), transporting animals in the cabin is generally prohibited by local legislation.

In the Cargo Hold (Checked Baggage)

If your pet weighs more than 8 kg, it can travel in a special climate-controlled section of the cargo hold. This is safe, as the temperature and pressure there are maintained at the same level as in the cabin.

• Weight Limits: Maximum weight of the animal together with the cage is 45 kg.
• Container Requirements: The cage must be rigid (plastic/fiberglass), comply with IATA standards, have a secure lock, and ventilation. Soft bags are not accepted in the hold.
• Comfort: The animal must be able to stand up fully, turn around, and lie down in a natural position.
• Quantity Limits: Maximum of 2 animals in the cargo hold on one flight (depends on aircraft type).
• Connections: If a connection at the hub (Madrid Airport) lasts more than 4 hours, transport in the hold may not be available.

As Cargo

This method is used in special cases when standard options are not suitable. The service is provided through the IAG Cargo division or specialized agents (e.g., WOOF Airlines).

• When Required: If the weight of the animal with the cage exceeds 45 kg, if the animal is flying unaccompanied, or if the breed is prohibited for transport as baggage.
• Special Requirements: Reinforced cages and additional customs documentation are required.
• Procedure: Booking is done separately from the passenger ticket through cargo agents.

Necessary Documents

Before traveling, ensure you have collected a full package of documents. Requirements may change depending on the destination country, especially for flights outside the EU (e.g., to Tel Aviv or Cairo).

• Veterinary Passport: Official pet passport (for EU) with microchipping records.
• Identification: Microchip (must be implanted before the rabies vaccination).
• Vaccinations: Valid vaccination against rabies is mandatory.
• Health Certificate: Veterinary certificate issued shortly before departure (timing requirements depend on the country).
• Export/Import Permits: Specific certificates may be required for international flights.

Approximate Service Costs

Payment for pet transport is made at the airport, but the space must be booked in advance. Prices are indicative and depend on the destination.

• In the Cabin: From 35 to 50 Euros per flight segment (within Spain and Europe).
• In the Cargo Hold: From 80 to 120 Euros per flight segment.
• Payment: The fee is charged for each flight, meaning that for a connecting flight, the amount doubles.

Preparation Tips

• Acclimatization to the Cage: Allow your pet to get used to the carrier a few days before the flight to reduce stress.
• Feeding: Do not feed the animal heavily less than 4 hours before departure to avoid motion sickness.
• Check-in: Arrive at the airport early (at least 2.5–3 hours), as processing documents for the animal takes time.
• Tag: Be sure to attach a tag with the pet's name and your phone number to the collar and cage.

Restrictions and Prohibitions

Iberia Express strictly monitors safety, so restrictions apply to certain animals.

• Brachycephalic (Snub-nosed Breeds): Dogs and cats with flattened faces (e.g., Bulldogs, Pugs, Pekingese, Persian cats) are not accepted for transport in the cargo hold due to the risk of respiratory problems. They can only fly in the cabin (if they meet the weight limit) or as cargo.
• Dangerous Breeds: Dogs classified as potentially dangerous (e.g., Pit Bull Terriers, Rottweilers) may be prohibited from transport or require special conditions (muzzle, special cage).
• Mustelidae Family: Ferrets and martens are usually not allowed on Iberia Express flights.
• Guide Dogs: Transported free of charge in the aircraft cabin provided there are appropriate training certificates, a muzzle, and a leash.

Please note: pet transport rules may change. We strongly recommend contacting the Iberia Express call center to confirm the possibility of transporting your pet immediately after purchasing your ticket.

When traveling with Iberia Express, passengers automatically gain access to the benefits of Iberia Plus—one of the most popular loyalty programs in Europe. This system allows you to accumulate the universal currency Avios not only for flights but also for everyday spending, turning every kilometer of the journey into new travel opportunities.

Membership Tiers and Privileges

Status in the program depends on the number of accumulated Elite Points (Puntos Élite) or flight segments completed per year. The higher the level, the more comfortable your journey through the airline's hub—Madrid—becomes.

• Clásica (Basic): Entry level assigned upon registration. Grants the right to accumulate Avios and priority on flight waiting lists.
• Plata (Silver): Check-in at business class counters (even with an economy ticket), increased baggage allowance, and priority boarding.
• Oro (Gold): Access to VIP lounges worldwide, Fast Track access at select airports, and guaranteed seat reservation.
• Platino (Platinum): Maximum privileges, including two extra pieces of baggage, upgrades to business class, and the ability to gift a Gold card to a partner.

How to Collect Avios

Program currency is awarded for activity both in the sky and on the ground. The number of points depends on flight distance and booking class.

• Flights: You earn points for every Iberia Express flight, for example, heading to London or the sunny island of Santa Cruz de Tenerife.
• Partner Airlines: Points are awarded for flights with all alliance members and other partners (Vueling, Level).
• Ground Services: Car rentals, hotel bookings, and even refueling at partner gas stations top up your account.
• Financial Services: Using co-branded credit cards allows you to collect Avios for everyday purchases in supermarkets.

How to Spend Accumulated Points

Flexibility in using points is the main feature of Iberia Plus. You are not limited only to flights, although this is the most popular way to spend them.

• Reward Tickets: Full payment of the flight with Avios (only taxes and fees are paid), for example, for a vacation in the city of Las Palmas.
• Class Upgrade: Use points to move from economy to business class and enjoy enhanced comfort.
• Ticket Discounts: The "Avios & Money" option allows you to pay part of the ticket cost with points, reducing the cash price.
• Onboard and Airport Services: Payment for extra baggage or seat selection in the cabin.

Alliance Membership

Iberia Express, through its parent company, is a member of the prestigious global aviation alliance oneworld. This means your Iberia Plus card opens doors and provides privileges when flying with giants like British Airways, American Airlines, Qatar Airways, and others. Program statuses (Ruby, Sapphire, Emerald) are recognized by all alliance carriers, ensuring seamless service worldwide.

How to Join the Club

Becoming a member of the program is very simple and completely free. Just fill out a short form on the official website or in the Iberia mobile app. Immediately after registration, you will receive a digital membership number and can use it when booking tickets to start collecting points from your very first flight.

Traveling with Iberia Express is a combination of budget airline efficiency and traditional carrier quality standards. The airline offers a flexible approach to service, allowing passengers to choose between the affordability of Economy Class and the premium comfort of Business Class, which is a rarity for low-cost carriers.

Travel Classes

Economy Class
The Economy Class cabin is designed to ensure maximum comfort at an optimal price. The seats here feature an ergonomic "Slim" design (thin backrest), which allows for increased legroom even with a standard cabin layout. This is an excellent choice for flights within Spain or short flights to Europe, for example, to Berlin or Amsterdam. Depending on the fare, passengers can select seats in advance or at check-in.

Business Class
Iberia Express is one of the few budget airlines offering a full Business Class. It is located in the front section of the aircraft. The main comfort feature here is the blocked middle seat. This guarantees more personal space and privacy: the adjacent seat turns into a convenient table. Passengers in this class receive priority boarding, an increased baggage allowance, and access to VIP lounges (at airports where this service is provided, particularly at the base hub—the city of Madrid).

Onboard Dining

The approach to dining depends on the selected class, but the quality of products always remains high, highlighting Spanish gastronomic traditions.

• In Economy Class: The "La Gastroteca" paid menu concept applies. Passengers can purchase fresh sandwiches, light snacks, tapas, as well as hot and cold drinks directly during the flight. The menu is regularly updated depending on the season.
• In Business Class: Meals are included in the ticket price. Exquisite dishes served on porcelain tableware are offered on flights. The menu varies from light breakfasts to full lunches and dinners, especially on longer routes such as flights to Cairo or Tel Aviv. A selection of premium beverages and other drinks is also offered.

Entertainment and Wi-Fi

There are no built-in screens in the seatbacks on Iberia Express aircraft, but passengers will not be bored. The airline uses the modern wireless entertainment system Club Express Onboard.

After takeoff, you can connect to the aircraft's internal Wi-Fi network for free using your smartphone, tablet, or laptop. The portal offers access to movies, TV series, press in various languages, city guides (e.g., what to see after arriving in London), and games. For convenience in charging gadgets, seats in Business Class rows are equipped with power outlets, and USB ports are also appearing in Economy Class on new aircraft.

Special Services

Iberia Express strives to make flying accessible and comfortable for all categories of passengers.

• Passengers with Reduced Mobility: The airline provides a full range of assistance and boarding services. A request for assistance must be made at least 48 hours before departure.
• Unaccompanied Minors: For children aged 5 to 11, an accompaniment service by airline staff (Unaccompanied Minor) is available. Flight attendants will look after the child during the flight and hand them over to the meeting party at the destination, whether it is Santa Cruz de Tenerife or any other city in the route network.
• Families with Infants: Collapsible strollers are allowed on board (they are often collected at the stairs), and special seat belts are provided for infants.

The Iberia Express route network is centered around its strategic hub at Madrid Airport, from where regular flights are operated to the most sought-after destinations. The airline ensures reliable connections between the Spanish capital and popular island resorts of the Canary and Balearic archipelagos, as well as key business and tourist centers in Europe and the Middle East.

Traveling with Iberia Express can be not only comfortable but also very cost-effective if you know a few simple rules. As a hybrid airline combining elements of a low-cost carrier and a traditional airline, it offers many tools to save time and money. Here are key tips to help you plan the perfect flight.

Join Club Express for an Instant Discount
The main hack for passengers of this airline is free registration in Club Express on the official website. Unlike complex loyalty programs, here you get the benefit immediately: club members are guaranteed a direct discount on the ticket price when purchasing online. Additionally, this gives access to exclusive sales and the ability to store passenger data for quick booking.

Book in Advance and Watch for Seasonality
Although Iberia Express operates many flights, popular destinations such as Las Palmas or Santa Cruz de Tenerife are in high demand, especially during the summer season and holidays.

• Optimal Time: To get the best fares ("Express" fares), try to buy tickets 2–3 months before departure.
• Flexible Dates: Flights in the middle of the week (Tuesday, Wednesday) are often cheaper than flights on Friday or Sunday.

Online Check-in Features
To avoid queues at the airport, be sure to check in online.

• Standard Rule: Free online check-in usually opens 24 hours before departure.
• Early Access: If you paid for seat selection during booking, you can check in and get your boarding pass immediately after purchasing the ticket, even a month before the flight. This is very convenient for peaceful vacation planning.
• Getting the Pass: Save the boarding pass on your mobile phone or print it out. Digital versions are accepted at the base hub, the city of Madrid, and most European airports.

Seat Selection: Comfort or Savings?
When purchasing a ticket, the system will offer you to select a seat for an additional fee.

• XL Seats: If legroom is important to you, consider seats at emergency exits (rows 12–14 on the A320). Note that these seats cannot be occupied by children or passengers requiring a seatbelt extension.
• Quick Exit: Seats in the front rows (2 to 6) will allow you to leave the aircraft first upon arrival, which is critical for short connections.
• Free Seat: If you do not want to pay, wait for online check-in to open 24 hours in advance—the system will assign you a vacant seat automatically for free.

Mobile App — Your Pocket Assistant
Download the official Iberia Express app before your trip. It allows you not only to buy tickets and check in for a flight but also opens access to the free onboard entertainment system Club Express Onboard. Through the app, you can watch movies, read the press, and track flight status in real-time by connecting to the aircraft's internal Wi-Fi network.

Travel Insurance
During booking, the airline offers to add travel insurance from partners. We recommend not ignoring this point, especially if you are flying with connections or carrying valuable baggage. Insurance can cover expenses in case of trip cancellation due to illness or flight delay, which will add peace of mind to your journey.

The history of Iberia Express is a shining example of how a smart strategy can turn a startup into one of the leaders of the European market in just a few years. The airline was created during a difficult period for aviation but managed to prove that budget travel can be comfortable, and a low-cost carrier can be punctual.

Founding and Launch (2012)
The official birthday of the company is considered to be March 25, 2012. It was then that the first Iberia Express aircraft took to the skies. The project was conceived by the parent holding company IAG (International Airlines Group) as a strategic response to growing competition from low-budget carriers. The main task of the new structure was to ensure efficient passenger feed to the hub—Madrid Airport—for transfers to Iberia's long-haul flights, as well as creating a profitable route network within Europe.

Rapid Growth and Recognition
Already in the first years of existence, the company demonstrated impressive development rates. While at the start the fleet consisted of only four aircraft, a short time later their number increased significantly. An important milestone was achieving profitability almost immediately after launch, which is a rarity for the aviation industry. Thanks to clearly established logistics, Iberia Express quickly won the title of the most punctual low-cost airline in the world, holding this standard for several years in a row (according to FlightStats and Cirium data).

Route Network Development
Initially focusing on the domestic market, the airline quickly expanded its flight geography. The Canary Islands became a key direction: flights to Las Palmas and Santa Cruz de Tenerife became the carrier's calling card, ensuring a steady flow of tourists all year round. This was followed by active expansion into key European capitals. Regular flights to London, Berlin, and Dublin were secured in the schedule, allowing business travelers and tourists to fly at affordable prices while maintaining business class service.

New Horizons and Fleet Evolution
As its position strengthened, Iberia Express began to master more complex and distant routes extending beyond traditional Europe. The launch of flights to Tel Aviv and Cairo marked a new stage of development, transforming the carrier from a regional operator into an airline with an interesting international network.

Modern Stage and Innovation
Today, the airline's development is inextricably linked with fleet renewal and digitalization. Iberia Express is actively replacing classic liners with new generation Airbus A321neo aircraft. These machines are not only more eco-friendly and quieter but also allow for more comfortable longer flights. The implementation of a modern onboard entertainment system via Wi-Fi and constant improvement of user experience in the app confirm that the company continues to evolve, remaining true to its hybrid model: low-cost prices, but national carrier quality.