How This Airline Made Transatlantic Low-Cost Flights Work
LEVEL, an airline founded by International Airlines Group (IAG) in 2017, has successfully operated low-cost transatlantic flights for nearly a decade, unlike competitors like Norwegian Air Shuttle and Norse Atlantic Airways, which have struggled with losses and financial instability. LEVEL, now operating under its own Air Operators Certificate, plans to expand from its Barcelona hub while maintaining a smaller-scale approach compared to failed predecessors.
LEVEL, a low-cost airline launched by International Airlines Group (IAG) in 2017, has defied industry trends by sustaining profitability in transatlantic travel, unlike competitors such as Norwegian Air Shuttle and Norse Atlantic Airways. While Norwegian ceased operations in 2021 and Norse faces potential sale due to persistent losses and a 99% stock price decline since 2021, LEVEL has grown steadily from its Barcelona-El Prat Airport hub. The airline initially operated under Iberia’s Air Operators Certificate (AOC) before securing its own in December 2024, enabling further expansion. At launch in March 2017, LEVEL introduced routes from Barcelona to Oakland (OAK), Los Angeles (LAX), Punta Cana (PUJ), and Buenos Aires (EZE), with ticket sales exceeding expectations. A year later, LEVEL expanded to Paris Orly Airport (ORY), initially using OpenSkies’ AOC and crew before fully rebranding under LEVEL in 2018. The airline replaced OpenSkies’ aging Boeing fleet with three Airbus A330-200s, launching routes to Caribbean destinations, Montreal (YUL), and Newark (EWR). LEVEL’s strategy contrasts with failed low-cost transatlantic ventures, which struggled against high competition and unsustainable economics. While Norwegian and Norse reduced capacity and leased aircraft to other airlines, LEVEL maintained a disciplined growth approach. The airline’s success stems from IAG’s backing and a focus on core markets, avoiding the aggressive expansion seen by competitors. Despite industry-wide challenges, LEVEL remains positioned for growth, leveraging its Barcelona hub and newly acquired AOC. The airline’s ability to operate profitably highlights a viable model for low-cost long-haul travel, offering a rare success story in an otherwise troubled sector.
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