Level Airlines, a low-cost carrier established in 2017, is a subsidiary of the International Airlines Group (IAG), which also owns British Airways, Iberia, and Aer Lingus. Headquartered in Barcelona, Spain, Level was created to cater to the growing demand for affordable transatlantic travel. The airline operates under a unique business model that combines a low-cost approach with the operational backing of its parent company.
With a fleet consisting of Airbus A330 aircraft, Level Airlines has positioned itself as a competitive player in the long-haul market, offering flights primarily between Europe (Barcelona) and North America, as well as select routes to South America. The airline’s branding emphasizes a modern and youthful image, appealing to budget-conscious travelers who seek value without compromising on safety. Level Airlines operates exclusively from its hub at Barcelona-El Prat Airport, providing a range of destinations that cater to both leisure and business travelers.
The airline’s commitment to transparency in pricing—though often requiring careful attention to add-ons—has garnered attention in an industry known for complex fare structures. As of January 2026, Level Airlines continues to expand its transatlantic operations, focusing on delivering a straightforward travel experience.
Key Takeaways
- Long-Haul Focus: Level Airlines is a low-cost long-haul carrier operating primarily from Barcelona to the Americas.
- Competitive Pricing: Fares are often significantly lower than legacy carriers, but base tickets typically exclude checked bags and meals.
- Destinations: Key routes include New York, Los Angeles, Boston, Miami, Buenos Aires, and Santiago de Chile.
- Fleet: The airline operates modern Airbus A330-200 aircraft equipped with Economy and Premium Economy cabins.
- Reputation: Reviews generally praise the value and clean aircraft, though travelers must be aware of strict baggage fees and paid amenities.
Pricing and Cost Comparison
Level Airlines is renowned for its competitive pricing strategy designed to attract budget-conscious travelers. The airline employs a dynamic pricing model that adjusts fares based on demand, seasonality, and route popularity. This approach allows Level to offer some of the most competitive fares in the transatlantic market.
For instance, promotional fares can sometimes dip below €200 for one-way flights from Barcelona to destinations like New York or Boston, making it an attractive option for travelers seeking cost-effective solutions. When comparing Level Airlines’ pricing with other carriers, it is evident that Level strikes a balance between affordability and optionality. While base fares are low, they are “unbundled,” meaning services like seat selection, checked luggage, and onboard meals are usually extra charges in the standard Economy cabin.
In contrast, traditional carriers may provide all-inclusive services but at higher price points. Level’s pricing structure allows customers to choose their level of service by offering various fare classes (such as Light, Comfort, and Extra) that bundle different amenities, thus catering to a wide range of budgets.
Flight Routes and Destinations
Level Airlines has strategically developed its route network to connect Barcelona with major cities across North and South America. The airline’s primary hub in Barcelona serves as a gateway for European travelers looking to explore the Americas and vice versa. Popular routes include flights from Barcelona to:
- New York (JFK)
- Los Angeles (LAX)
- San Francisco (SFO)
- Boston (BOS)
- Miami (MIA)
- Buenos Aires (EZE)
- Santiago de Chile (SCL)
The airline’s route planning is informed by market research and passenger demand trends. For example, seasonal adjustments are often made to accommodate summer vacation peaks or winter holidays. This flexibility positions Level Airlines as a responsive player in the competitive aviation landscape.
In-Flight Amenities and Services
| Amenity/Service | Description |
|---|---|
| Meal Service | Included in Premium Economy. Buy-on-board or pre-order required for standard Economy. |
| Entertainment | Personal seat-back screens with movies, TV, and music available at every seat. |
| Wi-Fi | High-speed satellite Wi-Fi packages available for purchase. |
| Seat Comfort | A330 Economy (2-4-2 config) and Premium Economy (2-3-2 config) with extra legroom and recline. |
| Onboard Shopping | Duty-free items and comfort kits available for purchase. |
Level Airlines offers a range of in-flight amenities designed to enhance the travel experience while maintaining its low-cost model. Passengers fly on Airbus A330-200 aircraft. While the airline does not provide complimentary meals on standard Economy “Light” fares, it offers an extensive menu featuring hot meals and snacks that can be pre-ordered or purchased on board.
In addition to food options, Level Airlines provides in-flight entertainment through personal screens equipped with a selection of movies and TV shows. Passengers can also access Wi-Fi services for an additional fee. The airline’s Premium Economy cabin offers a more inclusive experience, with meals, drinks, and checked baggage included in the fare.
Customer Reviews and Satisfaction
Customer reviews play a crucial role in shaping the reputation of any airline. Overall, feedback for Level Airlines generally leans towards positive regarding value for money. Many travelers appreciate the affordability of the fares and the condition of the modern aircraft. The cabin crew is frequently praised for being friendly and efficient.
However, some customers express concerns regarding additional fees. As with many low-cost carriers, travelers sometimes feel that charges for baggage, water, or headphones are not clearly anticipated if they are used to legacy carriers. This feedback underscores the importance of reviewing the “what’s included” section carefully during the booking process.
Safety and Reliability
Safety is paramount in the aviation industry, and Level Airlines adheres to strict standards set by the European Union Aviation Safety Agency (EASA). As an IAG subsidiary, it benefits from the robust maintenance and safety protocols shared by British Airways and Iberia. The fleet consists of modern aircraft equipped with advanced safety features.
In terms of reliability, Level Airlines focuses heavily on punctuality to maintain aircraft utilization. By operating a simplified fleet and point-to-point routes, the airline aims to minimize operational delays. This commitment to reliability helps reinforce its reputation as a trustworthy option for transatlantic travel.
Check-in and Boarding Process
The check-in process at Level Airlines is designed to be efficient. Passengers are strongly encouraged to check in online via the website or mobile app, which opens 24 hours before departure. This allows travelers to secure boarding passes in advance and avoid potential fees or queues at the airport.
Airport counters are available for bag drops and document checks. Boarding is typically organized by zones to manage passenger flow. Staff members are available to assist, though passengers on the lowest fare classes should ensure they have their travel documents and boarding passes ready digitally to streamline the experience.
Baggage Policies and Fees
Level Airlines’ baggage policy is a critical area for passengers to understand. The “Light” fare typically includes only one carry-on bag and one personal item (such as a handbag or laptop bag) free of charge. Checked baggage usually incurs an additional fee unless purchased as part of a bundle (like the “Comfort” fare) or Premium Economy ticket.
Fees for adding bags at the airport are significantly higher than online pre-booking rates. To avoid surprises, Level Airlines encourages passengers to purchase necessary baggage allowance at the time of booking.
Loyalty Programs and Rewards
While Level Airlines does not have a standalone frequent flyer program, it participates in the Avios loyalty ecosystem. Passengers can earn and redeem Avios points on Level flights, which is a major benefit compared to other independent low-cost carriers. These points can be used across the IAG network, including British Airways, Iberia, and Vueling.
Environmental Impact
Level Airlines has made commitments toward sustainability. Its fleet of twin-engine Airbus A330s is more fuel-efficient than older quad-engine aircraft often used for long-haul routes in the past. Additionally, the airline implements operational measures to optimize flight paths and reduce weight, contributing to IAG’s group-wide goal of net-zero carbon emissions by 2050.
Conclusion and Final Recommendations
Level Airlines presents a viable option for budget-conscious travelers seeking direct long-haul flights from Barcelona. Its competitive pricing and backing by a major airline group position it favorably in the market. While the “unbundled” fare model requires travelers to be savvy about add-ons, the core flight experience is safe, modern, and comfortable.
Tip: Always calculate the total cost of the flight including luggage and meals. If you plan to check a bag and eat on board, a bundled fare might be cheaper than adding items individually to a basic ticket.
If you’re planning on traveling with Level Airlines, you may want to consider investing in some high-quality travel accessories to enhance your journey. One essential item is a reliable power bank; this article provides a helpful guide. Additionally, comfortable footwear is key for long travel days, such as the options in this article. Finally, durable luggage is a must—check out this guide for recommendations.
FAQs
What is Level airline?
Level is a low-cost long-haul airline brand owned by the International Airlines Group (IAG). Launched in 2017, it operates primarily from Barcelona to destinations in North and South America.
Is Level a good airline?
Level is generally considered good for value-seekers. It offers modern aircraft and safe operations backed by IAG. However, passengers should expect a “no-frills” experience where food and checked bags cost extra on basic fares.
What destinations does Level airline serve?
As of 2026, Level serves long-haul destinations from Barcelona, including New York, Boston, Los Angeles, San Francisco, Miami, Buenos Aires, and Santiago de Chile.
What type of aircraft does Level operate?
Level operates a fleet of Airbus A330-200 aircraft optimized for long-haul travel. These planes feature both Economy and Premium Economy cabins.
Does Level offer amenities on its flights?
Yes, Level offers personal in-flight entertainment screens at every seat. Wi-Fi, meals, and beverages are available but typically require payment unless you are flying in Premium Economy or have purchased a bundled fare.
Is food free on Level Airlines?
In the standard Economy cabin, food and drinks are not free; they must be purchased. In the Premium Economy cabin, a three-course meal and beverages are included in the ticket price.