Level: IAG's Low-Cost Brand Flying Transatlantic from Barcelona

From Experimental Brand to More Independent Airline

Level was created to test a low-cost model on long-haul with widebody aircraft, a segment that traditional low-cost carriers rarely venture into because of the higher fixed costs. After the suspension of the short-haul European routes previously operated from Vienna and Paris-Orly, the airline has focused exclusively on long-haul from Barcelona, with the aim of growing as a more autonomous carrier within IAG.

The Fleet

The fleet consists entirely of Airbus A330s, with a growth plan that will take the number of aircraft based in Barcelona from five to eight during 2026. It is a deliberately uniform fleet, designed for a long-haul model that is simplified compared with that of the group's full-service airlines.

Routes and Network

From Barcelona, Level connects North American destinations such as New York, Boston, San Francisco and Los Angeles, as well as South American routes to Buenos Aires and Santiago de Chile; Miami is expected to be added from 2027. It is a network designed to make Barcelona a low-cost transatlantic hub, an alternative to Madrid for those who do not need the services of a full-service carrier.

Fares and Baggage

As is typical of long-haul low-cost carriers, the basic fare excludes a hot meal, checked baggage and seat selection, which can be purchased separately or are included in higher fares. This model allows lower starting fares than full-service carriers on the same transatlantic routes, provided you accept a more basic onboard product.

What Passengers Say

• Pros: some of the lowest transatlantic fares available from Barcelona, and the convenience of a secondary hub compared with Madrid for people living in Catalonia.
• Cons: extra costs that can noticeably raise the final price of the trip, and a simpler onboard product than full-service carriers on the same routes.

Level is an effective choice for anyone living near Barcelona who wants to fly to the Americas while saving money compared with full-service fares, accepting a more basic onboard service. It is less suitable for those seeking the network and flexibility of a full-service carrier with more schedule alternatives in case of cancellation.

Always calculate the total cost of the flight, including baggage, seat and meal, before comparing the fare with a full-service carrier on the same route: the initial difference often shrinks once these extras are added.