Iberia Plans A330neo Expansion, Keeps Iberia Express

Iberia is preparing to expand its long-haul fleet with possible additions of Airbus A330-900neo aircraft from parent company IAG’s recent widebody order. The Spanish flag carrier aims to grow its long-haul fleet from 45 to about 70 aircraft by 2030, as part of a EUR6 billion (USD6.9 billion) investment plan over the next five years.

Under its 2030 Flight Plan, Iberia will increase capacity through the addition of A350-900s, A321XLRs, and potentially A330neos, which were included in IAG’s recent order of 21 A330-900Ns and 32 Boeing 787-10s. IAG also firmed up options for additional A350s and Boeing 777-9s. Iberia’s short- and medium-haul renewal will continue with new A320neo and A321neo aircraft, replacing aging narrowbody jets.

Currently, Iberia operates a mixed fleet of A319s, A320s, A321s, A330s, and A350s. Many narrowbody aircraft are wet-leased from subsidiary Iberia Express, which will remain operational. Iberia views the low-cost unit as essential to its short- and medium-haul network, despite acknowledging slower-than-expected growth. For now, Iberia Express will not expand but will continue operations.

Looking ahead, Iberia plans to open new long-haul routes, including destinations such as Toronto, Philadelphia, and Monterrey. In support of its growth, Iberia is also developing a new corporate campus, Ciudad Iberia, adjacent to Madrid Barajas Airport. The EUR600 million project is expected to create 1,000 new jobs annually through 2030 as the airline ramps up staffing to support its expanding operations.

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Sources: AirGuide Business airguide.info, bing.com, ch-aviation.com