International Airlines Group (IAG)

International Airlines Group is a publicly traded airline holding company headquartered in London, United Kingdom. The company operates multiple airline brands across Europe and globally. IAG is listed on the London Stock Exchange (LSE: IAG) and IBEX 35 (Spain).

In 2026, International Airlines Group continues to operate as the parent company of British Airways, Iberia, Vueling, Aer Lingus, LEVEL, IAG Loyalty and IAG Cargo. The company is a Spanish registered entity with shares trading on both the London and Spanish stock exchanges, while maintaining its corporate head office in London, UK. IAG was formed in January 2011 through the merger of British Airways and Iberia, creating one of Europe's largest airline holding companies that combines the strengths of multiple established airline brands under a unified corporate structure.

The company's business strategy emphasizes portfolio diversification across different market segments, allowing it to serve various customer preferences and price points. IAG's portfolio includes full-service carriers (British Airways, Iberia, Aer Lingus), low-cost carriers (Vueling), and long-haul low-cost operations (LEVEL), providing comprehensive coverage of the European and international aviation markets. This diversified approach enables IAG to capture different customer segments and optimize network efficiency across its airline brands.

IAG maintains a focus on operational excellence, customer experience, and network optimization across its airline portfolio. The company invests significantly in fleet modernization, route optimization, and operational efficiency to maintain competitive advantages in the global aviation market. IAG employs thousands of people across its airline operations, maintenance facilities, and corporate offices, serving millions of passengers annually across its global network. The company's financial performance is influenced by factors such as fuel prices, passenger demand, geopolitical events, and regulatory requirements in the aviation industry.

IAG's corporate structure allows each airline brand to maintain its distinct identity and market positioning while benefiting from shared resources, expertise, and economies of scale. The company's commitment to sustainability includes investments in more fuel-efficient aircraft, carbon offset programs, and initiatives to reduce the environmental impact of aviation operations. IAG continues to navigate industry challenges while maintaining its position as one of Europe's largest and most influential airline groups.

International Airlines Group was founded in 2011 through the merger of British Airways and Iberia Airlines. The merger created a major airline holding company combining two of Europe's leading airlines. IAG was established to operate these airlines as separate brands while leveraging operational synergies.

Following the merger, IAG expanded its airline portfolio, acquiring additional carriers including Vueling, LEVEL, and Air Nostrum. The company established itself as one of Europe's largest airline groups. IAG went public on the London Stock Exchange and IBEX 35, allowing public investors to own shares.

Throughout the 2010s and 2020s, IAG has continued to invest in fleet modernization, route optimization, and operational efficiency. The company has maintained its position as one of Europe's largest airline groups. IAG has navigated industry challenges including fuel price volatility and the COVID-19 pandemic.