Iberia
Flag carrier airline of Spain, operating scheduled passenger and cargo services to over 120 destinations worldwide from its hub in Madrid-Barajas Airport.
Company Type
public
Founded
1927
Headquarters
Madrid, Spain
Stock
Madrid Stock Exchange: IAG
About Iberia
International Airlines Group (IAG) is the parent company of Iberia and British Airways, formed through their 2011 merger. The publicly traded group is listed on the Madrid and London stock exchanges and serves as one of Europe's largest airline groups.
IAG provides strategic oversight and capital allocation across its various airlines while allowing each carrier to maintain its national identity and operational base. The group structure enables economies of scale in fleet management, purchasing, and network planning.
IAG's ownership structure includes significant institutional ownership and provides the financial stability and strategic direction needed for long-term growth in the competitive aviation market.
Iberia operates as a full-service international carrier with multiple revenue streams:
- **Passenger Services:** Economy, business, and first-class passenger transportation
- **Cargo Operations:** Iberia Cargo, specializing in air freight services
- **Regional Operations:** Regional flights through Iberia Express and Iberia Regional
- **Low-Cost Operations:** Vueling for leisure market segments
- **Long-Haul Low-Cost:** LEVEL for long-haul leisure routes
The airline serves business and leisure travelers, connecting Spain with major global markets while maintaining a strong focus on service quality and operational excellence.
History of Iberia
Iberia was founded in 1927 as Spain's national airline, beginning operations with domestic flights within Spain. The airline expanded internationally throughout the 1930s, establishing routes to Europe and North Africa before being affected by the Spanish Civil War.
Following World War II, Iberia resumed operations and expanded its international network, becoming one of Europe's leading carriers to Latin America. Throughout the 1950s and 1960s, the airline modernized its fleet and developed its reputation for service quality.
In the 1970s and 1980s, Iberia continued its global expansion, joining the airline industry's computer reservation systems and developing its Madrid hub. The airline faced increasing competition but maintained its position as Spain's leading international carrier.
In 2011, Iberia merged with British Airways to form International Airlines Group (IAG), creating a major European airline alliance. The merger preserved both airline identities while creating synergies and expanded global reach.
Brands Owned by Iberia
Iberia owns 0 brands in our database.
Stock Information
Iberia Ownership: Pros & Cons
Advantages
- +Strong backing from IAG with global resources and network
- +Strategic location at Madrid with excellent connectivity to Latin America
- +Premium service reputation and high-quality operations
- +Extensive network across Europe and Latin American markets
- +Membership in oneworld alliance providing global partnerships
- +Government support providing financial stability
Considerations
- -Dependence on IAG strategy and performance
- -Competition from other European and international carriers
- -High operational costs in Spanish market
- -Vulnerability to global economic conditions and travel disruptions
- -Complex group structure with multiple airline operations
Frequently Asked Questions About Iberia
Is Iberia owned by another company?
Yes, Iberia is owned by International Airlines Group (IAG), which was formed through the 2011 merger of Iberia and British Airways. Iberia operates as a subsidiary of IAG.
Is Iberia publicly traded?
Iberia itself is not directly traded, but its parent company IAG is publicly traded on the Madrid and London stock exchanges under the ticker IAG.
When was Iberia founded?
Iberia was founded in 1927 as Spain's national airline. The airline has operated for nearly a century, serving as Spain's flag carrier throughout its history.
Who founded Iberia?
Iberia was founded in 1927 by Horacio Echevarrieta and other investors, establishing it as Spain's national airline for domestic and international flights.
What is Iberia's market position?
Iberia is Spain's flag carrier and one of Europe's leading international airlines, particularly strong in routes to Latin America. The airline maintains strong positions in global aviation and is a member of the oneworld alliance.
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