Iberia Airlines Expands Operations and Maintenance for 2025
Iberia Airlines is set to enhance its global operations and maintenance capabilities as it concludes 2024 on a high note. The Spanish carrier has announced ambitious plans for flight network expansions and operational improvements aimed at sustainability for the summer of 2025.
Iberia Maintenance has solidified its reputation as a premier aeronautical maintenance provider in Southern Europe, achieving significant growth in key operational areas. In 2024, the maintenance division certified 205 engines, marking a 15% increase from the previous year. The company has successfully implemented servicing for Pratt & Whitney GTF™ engines, allowing it to cater to both legacy engines and newer models, thereby providing comprehensive services to its clients.
The division performed over 180 heavy maintenance overhauls throughout the year, reflecting strong customer trust in Iberia’s expertise. Additionally, it overhauled and repaired 28,000 aircraft components, maintaining last year’s performance while expanding its capabilities to include 40 new families of components. Notably, Iberia has added the ability to maintain wheels and brakes for the A321XLR, which joined its fleet in November 2024.
Iberia Maintenance also celebrated the 20th anniversary of its Training Centre, which is accredited by the Spanish Aviation Safety Agency (AESA). The Centre delivered over 218,000 student hours of training in 2024, representing a remarkable 45% increase from the previous year.
Sustainability remains a core focus for Iberia. The airline has integrated sustainable aviation fuel (SAF) into its engine testing protocols, successfully reducing CO₂ emissions by over 131 tonnes. Other initiatives, such as the implementation of self-consumption electricity plants at their La Muñoza facilities, underscore Iberia Maintenance’s commitment to minimizing its environmental impact.
Looking ahead to summer 2025, Iberia Airlines plans to significantly expand its international flight network, particularly to the United States, Latin America, and various European destinations. The carrier aims to operate 140 weekly flights to the U.S., a 14% increase compared to 2024, providing up to 1.1 million seats for travelers. Key destinations like Boston and Washington, D.C. will see substantial capacity increases with the introduction of the fuel-efficient Airbus A321XLR.
In Latin America, Iberia continues to lead with flights to 18 destinations across 16 countries, aiming to provide 3.2 million seats for Europe-Latin America routes, a 4% increase from the previous year. The airline has also recently launched flights to Tokyo, achieving impressive occupancy rates shortly after its inception.
To bolster European connectivity, Iberia is enhancing flight frequencies on popular routes, supporting intra-European tourism and economic integration. Seasonal European destinations are set to return for the summer 2025 season, demonstrating Iberia's adaptability to tourism demand.
Iberia Airlines is positioning itself as a leading international carrier focused on expanding its global network and improving air connectivity while prioritizing sustainability. With significant investments in maintenance operations and a commitment to enhancing service levels, Iberia is well-prepared to meet the evolving needs of travelers in 2025 and beyond.