Flight Training Blog

Updated on November 6, 2025.

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Headquartered in Barcelona, the airline operates a dense network connecting major European cities, Mediterranean destinations, and select international routes.

For pilots, Vueling represents a solid, growth-oriented environment within the International Airlines Group (IAG)—a family that includes Iberia, British Airways, Aer Lingus, and LEVEL. With a modernizing fleet, a multi-hub network, and ongoing expansion, Vueling demonstrates how a low-cost carrier can combine efficiency with professional operational standards, making it an interesting airline for pilots to follow as they plan their career paths.

History

Founded in 2004 by Carlos Muñoz and Lázaro Ros, Vueling started operations with just two Airbus A320s flying between Barcelona and Ibiza. The name “Vueling” comes from vuelo—Spanish for “flight”—and captures the airline’s mission of connecting people efficiently and affordably.

After merging with Clickair in 2009, Vueling became Spain’s largest low-cost carrier. Its integration into IAG in 2013 marked a new era of expansion, enabling access to shared resources, codeshare agreements, and stronger global visibility. Today, Vueling continues to bridge major European cities and holiday destinations while maintaining its core identity as an accessible, reliable, and forward-thinking airline.

Fleet

As of early 2025, Vueling operates a fleet of around 141 Airbus aircraft, primarily from the A320 family. The current lineup includes approximately:

• 6 × Airbus A319
• 77 × Airbus A320ceo
• 12 × Airbus A320neo
• 18 × Airbus A321ceo
• 1 × Airbus A321neo

The average fleet age reflects a balanced mix of seasoned A320ceo workhorses and new-generation neo variants, which offer improved fuel efficiency and enhanced passenger comfort.

For the 2025 summer season, Vueling expanded its fleet by five new aircraft, increasing total seat capacity to over 27 million annually across nearly 100 destinations.

The most notable fleet development, however, comes with a major strategic shift starting in late 2026—Vueling will introduce Boeing 737 MAX aircraft, ending its long-standing all-Airbus tradition. IAG allocated 50 of its Boeing 737 MAX order to Vueling: 25 high-density 737 MAX 8200s and 25 737 MAX 10s. These aircraft will gradually replace older A320 models, offering higher capacity and greater fuel efficiency.

This modernization underscores Vueling’s commitment to maintaining operational flexibility, sustainability, and competitiveness as the European low-cost market continues to evolve.

Operational Bases & Destinations

Vueling operates a multi-hub system across Europe designed to balance efficiency and connectivity. The airline calls the Barcelona El Prat (BCN) airport its home. It’s Vueling’s central hub and operational heart, handling the majority of flights and connections. Secondary hubs are Rome Fiumicino (FCO) and Florence (FLR), strengthening Vueling’s Italian network and facilitating links between Italian and European routes.

Key Bases:

• Paris-Orly (ORY) – a major gateway for the French market.
• Amsterdam Schiphol (AMS) – supporting Northern European operations.
• London Gatwick (LGW) and Heathrow (LHR) – key points for UK connectivity.

In 2025, Vueling serves around 99 destinations in 30 countries, including major European capitals and leisure hotspots. Its reach extends beyond Europe through codeshares to long-haul destinations such as New York and Boston, typically operated by IAG partner airlines. This network structure allows Vueling to operate both point-to-point and connecting flights, merging low-cost efficiency with the broader benefits of alliance-driven connectivity.

Culture and Benefits for Pilots

Vueling’s culture emphasizes teamwork, safety, and professional growth. Pilots operate in a highly international environment, supported by advanced training and a strong corporate culture recognized by the Top Employer certification for outstanding HR practices.

Some of the pilot benefits include:

• Flight and Travel Perks: discounted or benefit flights for pilots and their families.
• Flexible Scheduling: work-life balance supported by adaptable rosters.
• Health & Retirement Plans: comprehensive coverage and contributions.
• Continuous Training: ongoing simulator access, recurrent training, and mentoring programs.
• Employee Recognition: programs designed to reward performance and engagement.

At Vueling, pilots are viewed as brand ambassadors, representing the airline’s values of diversity, reliability, and customer care both on and off the flight deck. The company encourages innovation, collaboration, and long-term career progression within the IAG ecosystem.

Growth & Expansion

 Vueling continues to strengthen its position both domestically and across Europe. In 2024, the airline operated over 223,000 flights, cementing its title as Spain’s largest carrier by flight volume and destinations served. For 2025, the airline’s growth strategy includes adding new routes from Barcelona to Agadir, Ljubljana, and Strasbourg, alongside the seasonal resumption of services to Tromsø. Domestically, it has enhanced connectivity with routes such as Barcelona–Córdoba and Seville–Essaouira.

Beyond expansion, Vueling focuses on optimizing its network efficiency and improving passenger experience. As part of IAG, it benefits from shared technological systems, maintenance support, and a broad codeshare network, allowing passengers to connect easily with global destinations through airlines such as British Airways, Iberia, Aer Lingus, Qatar Airways, and LATAM Brasil.

Sustainability Efforts

Vueling’s sustainability efforts center around fleet renewal and operational efficiency. The introduction of next-generation A320neo and Boeing 737 MAX aircraft plays a vital role in reducing fuel burn and carbon emissions. The airline has also implemented advanced maintenance technologies such as dentCHECK, which improves aircraft aerodynamics and longevity, contributing indirectly to sustainability through reduced waste and optimized performance.

As part of the IAG Group, Vueling aligns with IAG’s commitment to net zero carbon emissions by 2050, supported by mid-term goals for CO₂ reduction and increased adoption of Sustainable Aviation Fuel (SAF).

Bottom Line

Vueling Airlines has grown from a small Spanish start-up into a major European low-cost powerhouse, operating nearly 100 destinations with a modern and evolving fleet. For pilots, the airline exemplifies a dynamic, international operational environment with opportunities for professional growth and hands-on experience in both domestic and international routes.

If you’re a CPL holder looking to stay ahead of the curve, this is a perfect time to prepare—last year, over 100 cadets completed our Type Rating program for Vueling. Getting Type Rated now ensures you’re ready to step in as new opportunities open and be well-positioned when airlines like Vueling start hiring.