IAG, the parent company of Iberia, Iberia Express, Vueling, Level, Aer Lingus, and British Airways, reiterates a strong commitment to Spain with a multi‑year investment program. CEO Luis Gallego shared the plan with the Spanish prime minister during discussions at La Moncloa, outlining a substantial effort to renew the fleet and accelerate decarbonization initiatives across the group.
Over the past five years, IAG has already channelled a significant amount into Spain, totaling five billion dollars. The ambition extends further: a coordinated capital plan is in place to continue expansion and modernization over the next decade, reinforcing Spain’s role in the group’s network strategy.
The investments aim to bolster the development of Spanish air transport by strengthening fleet renewal, elevating passenger experience, and driving innovation and transformation programs. A core focus is sustainability, including the continued adoption of sustainable aviation fuel (SAF) and progress toward SAF targets set for 2030, well ahead of the European Union mandate for SAF use.
These plans do not include Air Europa, which is currently under Phase 1 review by the European Commission. IAG acknowledges that Air Europa is a key piece in transforming its Madrid Barajas hub, reinforcing leadership in the South Atlantic, expanding the footprint in the United States, and supporting connectivity with Asia and the Middle East. Such development is expected to elevate Madrid’s airport competitiveness among major European hubs and boost national wealth and employment.
Around five billion euros have been invested in Spain in the last five years, enabling a broad modernization push across the group. This has helped Iberia and Vueling improve punctuality and profitability, positioning both within the upper tier of European and global airlines.
During the meeting with Spain’s head of government, IAG underscored its role as a principal driver of Spain’s air connectivity and a supporter of the country’s tourism sector. The airline group also outlined plans to deepen its activities in Madrid and Barcelona headquarters, highlighting efforts to attract higher-quality tourism and create better business and employment opportunities across the country.
Sánchez commends IAG’s Spain commitment
The prime minister expressed appreciation for IAG’s long‑term investment strategy as a catalyst for Spain’s standing as a global reference point. He noted that ongoing collaboration on decarbonization would help combat climate change while safeguarding jobs and fostering economic growth.
As of 2022, IAG operated a fleet of 573 aircraft, served 256 destinations, and carried more than 95 million passengers. The group employs over 70,000 people, with around 26,000 based in Spain, underscoring the substantial employment footprint connected to its operations in the country. [Citation: IAG corporate communications]