Best Airlines to Fly to Spain

1. American Airlines

American Airlines is headquartered in Fort Worth, Texas. It is one of the best airlines to fly to Spain. You can find non-stop flights to Spanish cities like Madrid and Barcelona. These flights come from airports across Miami, New York, Dallas, Philadelphia, Boston, Phoenix, Chicago, Charlotte, and Los Angeles. 

American airline’s premium economy and business class seats come with their flagship life-flat seat, in-flight entertainment screen, and chef-inspired multi-course meals. You’ll also enjoy their amenity kit, headphones, and a Casper sleep set for a comfortable flight. Even on a budget, you can still relish soft drinks, snacks, and entertainment.

2. Delta Air Lines

Delta Airlines is a US airline with tons of flights to Spain from major American cities. You will find flights from New York, Atlanta, Detroit, Minneapolis, Salt Lake City, and more. This airline travels to Spanish cities, including Valencia, Madrid, Barcelona, Malaga, and Mallorca. 

Delta Airlines boasts a first-class fleet and exceptional customer service. So you can look forward to a truly luxurious experience, especially if you choose the business class or first-class seats.

3. United Airlines

United Airlines offers flight options for everyone, from budget-conscious travelers to luxury passengers. Onboard amenities include in-flight Wi-Fi, power outlets, entertainment, and a full “Bistro on Board” menu. 

However, there are no free snacks for economy passengers. In contrast, premium cabins can feature pre-packaged hot meals, while Premium Select and Polaris business class enjoy gourmet food options. You can find direct flights from the U.S. from Dallas, Miami, Fort Myers, and Raleigh to Spanish destinations like Barcelona and Madrid.

4. Air France

Air France operates its main hub, Charles de Gaulle Airport, in Paris. This French airline offers an extensive network of flights from over 170 destinations in the world. You’ll find non-stop flights from American cities like Dallas, New York, San Francisco, Los Angeles, and Atlanta to Madrid, Malaga, Barcelona, and Valencia. 

Luxury travelers will appreciate their multilingual entertainment content, Wi-Fi, gourmet meals, and thoughtfully designed cabins. Air France is known for consistently delivering superior service and punctuality. 

5. British Airways

British Airways is primarily based at London Heathrow Airport. This airline is also known for its affordably priced non-stop flights to Spain and other hot destinations globally. It offers daily direct flights and layovers to Spanish destinations, including Barcelona, La Coruna, Las Palmas, Alicante, Ibiza, Malaga, Seville, and Madrid.

British Airways caters to all travelers across different boarding seats. However, choosing Club World (business classes) offers a truly luxurious experience. Premium travelers enjoy priority boarding, luxurious lounges, spacious seating, British and international cuisines, and many entertainment options.

6. Iberia Airlines

Iberia Airlines is one of the best airlines to fly to Spain. It is headquartered in Madrid, with robust networks across destinations in North America, Europe, and Latin America. Known for its genuine Spanish experience, Iberia Airlines offers a mix of entertainment, comfortable seats, and various amenities. 

Non-stop flights are available from Dallas, Chicago, Boston, Los Angeles, Miami, and New York, to Spanish cities, including Seville, Barcelona, and Valencia. Iberia also caters to a wide range of travelers, from luxury passengers to budget-conscious ones. 

7. KLM Royal Dutch Airlines

KLM Royal Dutch Airlines originates from the Netherlands. It is the world’s oldest carrier. KLM connects major cities around the US (and the world) to Madrid, Valencia, Barcelona, Alicante, and other Spanish cities.

KLM’s in-flight experience is amazing. You can find three different seat options, including economy and business class. Their World Business Class offers full-flat seats, an amenity kit, tantalizing Dutch and international cuisines, and tons of entertainment options.

8. Lufthansa Airlines

Lufthansa is a German airline with its main hubs in Munich and Frankfurt. The airline offers routes connecting various locations in Asia, North America, and Europe to major Spanish destinations. 

Some destinations accessible from the U.S. can take you directly to Spanish cities like Madrid and Barcelona. Lufthansa is also known for its fine blend of comfort and entertainment. Passengers on their premium economy and business class enjoy dining options, adjustable headrests, extra legroom, and in-screen touch-screen entertainment.

9. Swiss International Airlines

Swiss International Airlines, also called SWISS, offers an impressive range of seat options with different levels of reliable service. This airline stands out for its sophistication and elegance, reflecting the values of its origin country, Switzerland. 

You’ll discover non-stop flights from around the US to Spanish cities like Seville, Ibiza, Bilbao, Malaga, Barcelona, and Madrid. Their in-flight experience in first-class and business seats is also exceptional. SWISS offers gourmet meals, in-screen entertainment options, and plush-seating features to ensure your comfort throughout your flight.

10. Vueling Airlines

Vueling Airlines is a subsidiary of IAG and is based in Barcelona. This airline is also known for offering the cheapest airline tickets in Europe with four budget-friendly fare packages. 

Here you have access to connecting flights from the U.S. to Spanish destinations, including Barcelona, Badajoz, Castellion, and Madrid.

As a budget-friendly airline, don’t expect premium luxury amenities. However, upgrading to business class tickets grants you access to Wi-Fi, pre-packaged meals, some entertainment, and extra legroom.

11. Air Europa

Air Europa is based in Mallorca and is quickly becoming one of the best airlines to fly to Spain. They offer the most competitively priced flights, with mouthwatering promotions during off-peak seasons. Air Europa offers low-cost airfare compared to larger carriers. 

Air Europe provides flight routes connecting many major U.S. and European cities to Spanish locations like Bilbao, Barcelona, and Madrid. Their winning combination of comfort, aviation technology, and air route network makes them stand out. You’ll also enjoy a wide array of entertainment systems, including games, music, and movies.

12. Air Canada

Air Canada is a Canadian airline in the U.S. and Canada connecting to Spanish cities such as Madrid, Montreal, and Barcelona. One notable standout feature is the quality of service, even in the most basic airline ticket class. 

You have five fare types, ranging from the basic and standard economy to the more expensive options, Flex, Comfort, and Latitude. 

However, moving from the basic economy to the standard economy for your international flight, you will access complimentary wines, spirits, meals, and personal touchscreen entertainment.

13. Finnair

Finnair is Finland’s largest airline, headquartered at Helsinki Airport (HEL). Depending on your airline seats, you can access Wi-Fi, al la carte dining, and many more entertainment options. It is also one of the best airlines to fly in Spain for cost-effective airline tickets. You can access non-stop and connecting flights to Barcelona, Alicante, Madrid, Gran Canaria, and many more. 

Upgrading to economy comfort and business class opens additional features. First, you have many international recipes, deliciously cooked to perfection. Then, there are extras like the in-flight entertainment, extra pillow and blanket, and excellent customer service to make your trip super comfortable. 

14. Alitalia

Alitalia is an Italy-based airline. It is known for providing diverse levels of comfort and service across its five airline fare classes. Alitalia also provides access to non-stop and connecting flights to Montreal, Madrid, and Barcelona. 

You can choose from economy, premium economy, business class medium-haul, or the Magnifica Class. 

Even on the smallest package, you still get access to the Alitalia Wi-Fi and a limited selection of games, music, and TV programs. Expect priority check-ins, security lanes, and onboard dining on more expensive options. 

15. Aer Lingus

Aer Lingus, Ireland’s home carrier, stands out for its affordable non-stop flight prices. You can find cheap flights from the U.S. and many other locations worldwide to Spanish cities, including Malaga, Gran Canaria, Alicante, Lanzarote, Madrid, Santiago, and Tenerife.

As a budget-friendly airline, you should expect standard-sized seats with little leg space. Nevertheless, pre-packaged meals and beverages are available, along with some in-flight entertainment.

16. TAP Portugal

TAP Portugal is a Portuguese airline with direct flights from different parts of the world to Alicante, Barcelona, Bilbao, Gran Canaria, Ibiza, Madrid, Menorca, and Malaga. This Portuguese carrier distinguishes itself because of its extensive in-flight entertainment options. Flying in TAP Executive Class offers access to lie-flat seats, a wide variety of TV access, and a full buffet of traditional and gourmet flavors served on Portuguese dinnerware.

17. Turkish Airlines

Turkish Airlines has received tons of accolades as one of Europe’s best airlines. Here you’ll find a generous baggage allowance and well-organized seating positions for all passengers. 

Granted, most affordable flights through Turkish Airlines are cheap connecting flights. But Turkish Airlines provides access to Spanish cities such as Bilbao, Barcelona, the Canary Islands, and Malaga.

The economy class has pre-packaged snacks. However, a higher airfare ticket grants access to an amenity kit, entertainment, and a full buffet of Turkish cuisine.

18. Austrian Airlines

Austrian Airlines, a subsidiary of Lufthansa, is also a small carrier. It covers flights to Spanish cities like Ibiza, Barcelona, and Mallorca. You’ll enjoy great service regardless of your seat options. 

However, the more expensive tickets allow passengers to enjoy a wide array of Austrian dishes and other international recipes. This also gets you in-flight entertainment, extra legroom, and even onboard shopping. 

In the premium economy class, you’ll enjoy additional features like a foldable table for creating a mini-workspace, a sleep mask, a toothbrush, and many more. 

19. LOT Polish Airlines

LOT Polish Airlines is also one of the world’s oldest airlines. This airline is known for its extensive networks, providing plenty of options for non-stop flights and layovers.

You’ll love the comfortable modern airplane design, which allows even economy-class passengers to enjoy some level of comfort with their reclining seat and an adjustable headrest.

However, Lot Polish Airlines specifically connects the U.S. and airports around the globe to Spanish cities like Barcelona and Madrid.

20. Icelandair 

Icelandair, Iceland’s best airline, is renowned for its remarkable customer service and delivery. You’ll discover cheaper airline tickets to Tenerife, Barcelona, and Alicante compared to larger carriers. 

Even so, Icelandair offers 5 ticket classes. The more expensive options include superb entertainment, priority check-ins, gate-to-gate Wi-Fi, generous baggage spaces, and lounge access. 

21. Norwegian Air Shuttle

Norwegian Air Shuttle is a smaller airline known for its competitive rates and excellent service. Here you’ll find flights to Spanish airports in Alicante, Barcelona, Madrid, Malaga, Gran Canaria, and more. 

As a cheaper airline, there is no business class. All you have to do is pay a low fare and bring along a small bag. The aircraft is also equipped with Wi-Fi, which attracts an extra fee, and you are free to choose a seat. However, there are no traditional entertainments.

22. Condor

Condor is a German airline known for its lower peak-season European fares. The airline serves 81 destinations. It is a favorite among Americans, with non-stop flights from American cities like Boston, Cancun, Las Vegas, Phoenix, and more. 

However, despite being low-cost, you may pay for your food, Wi-Fi, premium entertainment, and baggage. Condor Airlines will also allow you to fly directly to Spanish airports in Las Palmas, Ibiza, Alicante, Almeria, Malaga, Tenerife, and more. 

23. Qatar Airways

Qatar Airways is also one of the best airlines to fly to Spain. This airline is renowned for its luxurious in-flight experience. Qatar Airways covers many Spanish cities, including Valencia, Barcelona, and Madrid. 

Qatar Airways also has an extensive global network, which is perfect if you intend to travel to other places from Spain. 

If you choose the business class, you can enjoy private suites, strong Wi-Fi, up to 4,000 entertainment options, on-demand snacks, unlimited beverages, and gourmet meals.

Factors to Consider When Choosing an Airline

Choosing the best airlines to fly to Spain depends on individual preference. You must consider cost, flight duration, amenities, direct flights, layover locations, and more. 

Flight cost 

First, assess what exactly you get for prices offered by each airline. Analyze the base fee for your desired route and compare the difference between direct flights and layovers. 

Look at possible layover locations and how they affect your travel itinerary. Evaluate additional fees for priority boarding, carry-on language, seat selections, food packages, and many more. 

Typically, baggage costs $30 per item, with a minimum of $15 extra for early boarding.

If you are going with low-cost carriers, you should carefully rule out the “add-ons” to be sure what you will pay in the end won’t be significantly higher. For instance, some airlines advertise low fees, but with add-ons, they become more expensive than other airlines. 

Amenities

Whether you choose economical, first, or business class, assess the types of seats, entertainment, and more.

Concerning entertainment, larger carriers offer WiFi. However, the cost of using the airline’s entertainment can vary significantly. Additionally, extra legroom or reserving the exit row also costs a few more dollars.

Don’t forget to review the menu onboard, especially when you are choosing a premium flying option. Also, pay attention to airlines providing more amenities for special travelers, such as infants, children, and travelers with disabilities.

Direct Flights: US Cities Offering Straight Routes to Spain

Several U.S. cities offer direct flights to Spain. Here are some such cities and the airlines that operate them:

1. New York: Direct flights to Barcelona and Madrid are available through airlines like Delta Airlines, United Airlines, and American Airlines.
2. Miami: American Airlines offers direct flights to Madrid and Barcelona.
3. Philadelphia: Iberia offers direct flights to Madrid and Barcelona.
4. Dallas/Fort Worth: American Airlines offers direct flights to Spanish cities like Madrid.
5. Georgia: Delta Airlines provides flights from the Atlanta International Airport to Barcelona.

Best Time to Fly: Seasonal Considerations

The best time to fly to Spain depends on your priorities. If you want the cheapest flights, then January and February (typically November to February) are off-peak seasons with very low tourist activity.

Yet, the shoulder seasons of spring (April to May) and autumn (September to October) offer the best combination of affordable flights and limited touristy activities. Spain’s climate during these months is mild and pleasant, with average temperatures of 15 to 25^oC. Spring and autumn also have fewer crowds, and the airfare tends to be affordable.

In contrast, traveling during the peak summer months of June to August subjects you to hot, humid weather in southern Spain, where temperatures rise between 30 and 40°C. During this period, locals often visit the colder regions of Spain, primarily located in the northern regions. Here, they can enjoy milder temperatures, providing a respite from the suffocating heat.

Beach lovers love visiting Spain between May and September in the summer when Spanish destinations like Ibiza come to life. The tourist population often peaks in these months, especially between July and August.

Tips for Finding Cheap Flights to Spain

1. Travel during the shoulder season: This represents the periods between peak and off-season. Shoulder season allows you to enjoy lower prices and avoid the tourist crowds. 
2. Avoid major holidays and school breaks: These periods are generally the busiest times to fly, and the cost of flying would be the highest.
3. Book your flights in advance: The earlier you book your flights, the higher your chances of getting the most affordable deals. Airlines in Spain often release their seats for sale months in advance. Book for up to two or three months because prices increase as the travel date approaches.
4. Use smaller airports around you. Because smaller airports have lower landing fees, they generally have lower passenger fares.
5. Compare prices: Compare the prices of flights across different airlines and travel agencies using flight comparison tools to find the best deal on your flights.