Iberia

Iberia is Spain’s flag carrier and a oneworld member, flying from Madrid–Barajas Terminal 4 across Spain and Europe and to more Latin American cities than any other European airline. Every fare, even Basic, includes a 10 kg cabin bag, while Classic and Flexible add a checked bag. This guide covers the fares, baggage, power bank limits, Madrid T4 tips, Iberia Club and how Iberia compares with British Airways and Air Europa.

Iberia was founded in 1927 and is based in Madrid. It was a founding member of oneworld in 1999 and has been part of International Airlines Group (IAG), alongside British Airways, Aer Lingus and Vueling, since 2011.

Power Bank Rules on Iberia

Iberia sets clear limits on power banks and spare batteries:

• A maximum of two power banks per passenger, each 100 Wh or less.
• Power banks cannot be used on board.
• They cannot go in the overhead lockers, so take them out of your bag before you stow it and keep them with you.
• Spare lithium batteries: up to four of 100 Wh or less, and up to two between 100 and 160 Wh.
• Power banks are never allowed in checked baggage.

Check-In and Madrid Terminal 4

Online check-in is available on the website and app. Airport counters open 24 hours before departure in Madrid, and at other airports 4 hours before long-haul and 2 hours before short- and medium-haul flights.

Terminal 4 has two buildings: T4 for Spanish and Schengen flights, and the T4S satellite for non-Schengen and long-haul flights, linked by an underground train. Allow time for passport control when connecting from Europe to the Americas.

Families and Special Assistance

Infants under two travel on an adult’s lap, and bassinets are available on long-haul flights. Small dogs and cats can travel in the cabin on many flights when booked ahead. Request wheelchairs and other special assistance in advance.

How to Find Cheap Iberia Flights

• Compare Basic and Classic: Basic still includes a 10 kg cabin bag, so it suits short trips.
• Watch Avios sales: Iberia runs regular Avios promotions, including on Latin American routes.
• Check Iberia Express: it operates many domestic and Canary Islands routes at lower fares.
• Book Christmas early: flights to Latin America fill up fast in December.
• Compare airlines: use the FlightSelects flight search to see Iberia next to British Airways, Air Europa and others.

Iberia vs British Airways vs Air Europa

All three are full-service airlines with strong networks to the Americas.

See our British Airways guide and Air Europa guide to compare.

Arriving in Madrid

Madrid–Barajas is about 13 km from the city centre. Metro Line 8 and Cercanías trains serve Terminal 4, and an express bus runs around the clock.

You can also book an airport transfer in advance at a fixed price.

Is Iberia a Good Airline?

Yes. Iberia is one of the best choices between Europe and Latin America, with a modern fleet, a generous 10 kg cabin bag on every fare and the flexible Avios programme. Basic fares have no changes or refunds, so pick Classic or Flexible if your plans may change.

For more options, see our Vueling guide, our airline guides and the FlightSelects travel blog.

Facts checked in October 2026 against Iberia’s hand luggage and checked baggage pages and Business Traveller’s report on the fare structure. Rules change, so check the official Iberia website before you travel.