Barcelona, with its vibrant culture, stunning architecture, and Mediterranean flair, is a top destination for travelers worldwide. But what if your journey isn't ending in Catalonia? For those looking to explore far-flung, international locales from this Spanish hub, Level Airlines provides an excellent, budget-friendly gateway.
This guide dives into everything you need to know about flying with Level Flights from Barcelona-El Prat Airport (BCN), ensuring your long-haul journey starts smoothly.
Who is Level Airlines?
Level Airlines is a Spanish low-cost, long-haul carrier, part of the International Airlines Group (IAG)—the same parent company as British Airways and Iberia. Launched in 2017, Level's core mission is to offer direct, affordable Level Flights from key European cities to exciting intercontinental destinations. Barcelona has always been one of their principal operating bases, making BCN the perfect starting point for your next grand adventure.
While they operate under a low-cost model, they utilize modern, wide-body aircraft, typically the Airbus A330-200, designed for comfort on long-haul routes. This means you can save significantly on your fare without compromising the safety and stability of a major airline group.
The Key Destinations from BCN
Level focuses on key transatlantic routes, often serving destinations that traditional carriers might price at a premium. From Barcelona, their schedule often features popular North and South American cities. While specific routes can change seasonally, historically, you can expect to find direct Level Flights to places like:
- North America: Cities such as New York (JFK) or Boston (BOS), offering a convenient jump across the Atlantic to the East Coast of the USA.
- South America: Major hubs like Buenos Aires (EZE) in Argentina or Santiago (SCL) in Chile, opening up the incredible landscapes of the Southern Cone.
These direct services are particularly appealing to budget-conscious travelers and digital nomads who value a direct route over multiple connections.
Understanding the Level Experience: A La Carte Travel
To maintain its low-cost structure, Level operates on an "a la carte" model. This means the base fare includes only your seat and a small personal item. Everything else is an optional add-on, giving you control over your final price and travel experience.
Key Add-ons to Consider:
- Checked and Carry-on Baggage: If you require more than a small bag, you must purchase either a carry-on cabin bag allowance or checked luggage. It is almost always cheaper to purchase these online before you arrive at the airport.
- Seat Selection: If you have a preference for an aisle, window, or an exit row, you'll need to pay for seat selection. Otherwise, you'll be assigned a seat at check-in.
- Meals and Snacks: Inflight meals are not included in the basic fare. You can pre-order hot meals online or purchase snacks and beverages during the flight. For significant savings, consider bringing your own non-liquid, non-perishable snacks.
- Inflight Entertainment (IFE): While their A330 aircraft feature seatback screens, access to the full library of movies and shows may sometimes be a paid upgrade, depending on your fare class.
Tips for a Seamless Level Flight
- Check-In Online: To avoid potential counter fees and save time, check in via the Level Airlines app or website 24-48 hours before departure.
- Measure Your Bags: Be strict about the size and weight limits for your personal item and any purchased baggage. Gate agents are often vigilant about enforcing these low-cost rules.
- Arrive Early at BCN: Barcelona-El Prat (BCN) is a large, busy airport. Give yourself ample time—especially for international long-haul travel—to navigate security and reach the gate.
By understanding the budget model and planning your essentials in advance, flying Level Airlines from Barcelona is an efficient and economical way to launch your globetrotting adventures.
