Iberia, Iberia Express and the SEPLA pilots’ union have agreed a new indefinite labour and operational framework that unlocks future growth for the group’s Madrid-Barajas hub. The deal covers eight additional aircraft between 2028 and 2030, split between two for Iberia and six for Iberia Express, and is tied to the group’s Flight Plan 2030 fleet commitments.
The agreement ends uncertainty over Iberia Express’s expansion after a prolonged freeze in growth and adjusts pilot-convention limits dating from 2014 to give the group more fleet flexibility. It is designed to support short- and medium-haul operations while strengthening long-term social stability and competitiveness across the Madrid base.
The plan is expected to create 240 direct jobs, including 80 pilots and 160 cabin crew, and to enable 105 captain promotions across both airlines. It also shifts Iberia Express’s share of the group’s short- and medium-haul fleet closer to 40% from about 35% now, with Iberia remaining at around 60%.