Are you considering flying with Vueling Airlines for your next European adventure but curious about what to expect? From the moment you book your ticket to the time you land, every aspect of your journey matters.
How does Vueling, a budget-friendly carrier based in Spain, stack up in terms of service, comfort, and overall value?
In our comprehensive review of Vueling Airlines, from Barcelona to Amsterdam, we dive deep into passenger experiences, the booking process, in-flight services, and more. Ready to find out if Vueling is the right choice for your travel needs? Let’s explore the ins and outs of flying with Vueling Airlines.
What is Vueling Airlines?
Vueling Airlines is a budget airline with the pre-eminent title as Spain’s largest airline with the largest fleet size and destinations.
Founded in 2004, the airline’s first flight was between Barcelona and Ibiza. In 2019, the airline set a record for 34 million passengers in a year. Vueling Airlines also holds a prestigious ranking in the low-budget airlines category.
What Are The Packages Offered?
Vueling Airlines offers a range of fare options tailored to different types of travelers:
Basic Fare: This is the most economical option, designed for backpackers or those traveling light. It includes a single-hand carry, making it suitable for short trips or minimalistic travelers.
Optima Fare: This package offers more flexibility and is ideal for those who need to check in luggage. It includes an allowance for a 25 kg checked-in bag, two pieces of hand luggage, and the benefit of free seat selection. This fare is a good middle ground for those needing more than the basic offering but still looking for affordability.
Family Fare: As the name suggests, this fare is geared towards families. It includes a 25 kg checked bag, two pieces of hand luggage, free seat selection, two freehold items for parents with children under two years old, and priority boarding. This package makes family travel more convenient, offering additional luggage options and priority services.
TimeFlex Fare: This fare is suited for frequent travelers or those with unpredictable schedules. It features two pieces of hand luggage, unlimited free flight changes, the option of flight credit as a refund, and priority boarding. The highlight of this package is the flexibility it offers, allowing for last-minute changes without additional stress or cost.
Each of these packages is designed to meet specific travel needs, whether you’re looking for the most budget-friendly option or need more flexibility and convenience for family travel or frequent trips.
What Are People Saying About Vueling Airlines?
Public perception of Vueling Airlines varies, as reflected in online reviews and customer feedback. According to a review, Vueling holds a 2.5/5 star rating on TripAdvisor based on over 27,000 reviews, indicating a mixed reception among passengers. Common praises for Vueling Airlines include its affordability and convenience for budget-friendly travel within Europe.
However, several reviews have pointed out areas of concern, particularly regarding on-time departures and arrivals, with some customers experiencing delays. Issues related to bookings and customer service quality have also been highlighted, impacting the overall satisfaction of some passengers.
Despite these criticisms, a significant number of reviews rate their experience with Vueling Airlines as average to excellent, appreciating the airline for its value for money. This mixed feedback suggests that while Vueling is a popular choice for budget-conscious travelers, the experience can vary depending on individual expectations and specific flight circumstances.
Vueling Airlines Reviews
Customer reviews of Vueling Airlines reveal a range of experiences, indicating both satisfaction and dissatisfaction among passengers:
Negative Experience with Landing and Customer Service: A passenger from the United States expressed dissatisfaction with the pilot’s handling of the flight, particularly during landing attempts, and the subsequent customer service response, which they found lacking and unresponsive.
Missed Flight and Poor Customer Service: Another customer shared a frustrating experience of missing their flight due to a short connection time and encountering unhelpful customer service, leading to additional expenses and a resolve not to use the airline again.
Positive In-Flight Experience: Contrasting these experiences, a passenger from France described their flight as perfect, noting no specific issues and expressing satisfaction with their journey.
Impressed by Service and Efficiency: A traveler from the United Kingdom praised Vueling for efficient boarding, friendly service, and an overall positive impression of the airline, indicating a willingness to fly with them again.
Pleasant Surprise and Professional Service: Another review from the United Kingdom highlighted a pleasant experience with Vueling, commending the professional and helpful cabin crew, smooth boarding process, and overall civilized and professional flight experience.
All About Know Before Booking Vueling Airlines
Vueling Airlines, Spain’s largest carrier, operates an all-Airbus fleet, including the Airbus A321 which seats 220 passengers in an economy-only configuration. Here’s a point-by-point overview of the flying experience with Vueling:
- Aircraft: The Airbus A321 used by Vueling accommodates 220 passengers in an economy-class setup. The fleet comprises 124 aircraft.
- Loyalty Scheme: Vueling Club allows members to earn Avios points through flights, hotel stays, and shopping. These points can also be earned on flights with Iberia, Aer Lingus, and British Airways.
- Seating: The plane offers economy seating throughout, with rows 1-4 providing slightly more space for an additional fee. The specific seat in this account, 22C, is an aisle seat with standard dimensions and no special features like charging outlets.
- Flight Duration: The flight, scheduled for two hours, experienced a delay on the tarmac but managed to arrive only 20 minutes later than planned.
- Frequency: Flights operate daily, with this specific flight departing from Barcelona at 11.25 am.
- Carbon Emissions: The carbon footprint for one economy class passenger on this route is 0.195 tonnes. Passengers have the option to offset their emissions.
- Health Protocols: No COVID-19 testing or vaccination requirements were in place, but mask-wearing was mandatory on the flight.
- Check-in Process: At Barcelona Airport, online check-in is available, but there can be a wait for baggage drop-off. No passport control is needed for intra-EU flights. The airline may seek volunteers for later flights in exchange for credit.
- Baggage Policy: The Optima fare chosen allows one 25 kg checked bag, a 10 kg cabin bag, and a personal item. The Basic fare only includes an under-seat bag, and these rules are strictly enforced.
- In-Flight Entertainment: There are no seatback screens or magazines; Wi-Fi is available for purchase.
- Service: The cabin crew, dressed in grey and white with yellow accents, are described as friendly and efficient, with orderly disembarkation enforced.
- Food and Beverage: No complimentary refreshments are provided. Options for purchase include organic wine, snacks, and meals.
- Accolades: Vueling was named Europe’s best low-cost airline in the Skytrax 2021 awards.
- Overall Verdict: The reviewer found the flight satisfactory, with good service and value for the price paid.
Things to Know Before Flying With Vueling Airlines
Before flying with Vueling Airlines, it’s important to know a few key things to ensure a smooth and cost-effective travel experience:
- Low-Cost Airline with Added Costs for Extras: Vueling, being a budget airline, offers very affordable fares. However, they make money by charging for additional services such as baggage, drinks, snacks, and seat selection. The planes are basic and suitable for short flights.
- Flexible Dates Can Save Money: Checking the Vueling Airlines price calendar can help you find the best fares. Being flexible with your travel dates can lead to significant savings. It’s also a good idea to compare prices with other low-cost carriers in Spain.
- Various Fare Types and Baggage Policies: Vueling offers different fare types with varying allowances. For example, the Basic fare includes just a seat and a small personal item, while the Optima fare adds hand baggage and a 25 kg checked bag. Additional fees apply for extra luggage, and these can be quite high, especially if paid at the airport.
- Check-in and Mobile App: It’s recommended to download the Vueling app for easy check-in, mobile boarding passes, and flight updates. Online check-in is available from 7 days to 4 hours before your flight, and airport check-in closes 40 minutes before departure.
- Window Seats for Scenic Views: Especially for day flights around Spain or Europe, a window seat can offer beautiful views. There might be an additional cost for seat selection, depending on the fare you choose.
Is Vueling Airlines Safe to Fly?
Vueling Airlines, as part of the International Airlines Group (IAG), adheres to European aviation safety standards, which are among the strictest in the world. The airline operates a modern fleet of Airbus aircraft and follows rigorous maintenance and safety protocols.
Like all major airlines, Vueling is subject to regular safety inspections and must comply with the operational and safety regulations set by aviation authorities such as the European Union Aviation Safety Agency (EASA).
While budget airlines often have a no-frills approach to service, this does not typically extend to safety standards. Overall, Vueling Airlines is considered safe to fly, in line with international aviation safety norms.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
Is Vueling better than Iberia?
Vueling, as a low-cost carrier, generally offers more budget-friendly fares compared to Iberia, though it may have limitations in terms of destinations and services. Iberia, on the other hand, is recognized for its higher level of customer service and overall quality of flights.
Choosing between Vueling and Iberia depends largely on what you prioritize for your travel: cost efficiency with Vueling or a potentially more comprehensive flight experience with Iberia. Each airline caters to different travel needs and budgets, so the better option would vary based on individual preferences and requirements for a particular trip.
Which airline owns Vueling?
Vueling Airlines is owned by the International Airlines Group (IAG), which is a multinational airline holding company. IAG is one of the largest airline groups in the world and also owns other major airlines, including British Airways, Iberia, Aer Lingus, and Level. This ownership structure places Vueling alongside some of the most well-known and established airlines in the industry, benefiting from shared resources and strategic alignment within the group.
Is Vueling a UK airline?
No, Vueling is not a UK airline. It is a Spanish airline based in El Prat de Llobregat, Greater Barcelona, with primary hubs at Barcelona–El Prat Airport and Rome’s Leonardo da Vinci–Fiumicino Airport. Vueling is part of the International Airlines Group (IAG), which also owns other airlines including British Airways, but Vueling itself is headquartered and registered in Spain.
What planes do Vueling use?
Vueling Airlines primarily operates a fleet composed of Airbus aircraft. The airline uses models from the Airbus A320 family, which includes the Airbus A320-200 and the Airbus A321-200. These aircraft are popular among many airlines for their efficiency and suitability for short to medium-haul flights. The choice of these models aligns with Vueling’s operations as a low-cost carrier primarily serving destinations across Europe and some parts of North Africa and the Middle East.
Conclusion
The overall consensus from Vueling Airlines reviews suggests a mixed experience for passengers. Positive reviews typically highlight the airline’s affordability and adequate service for short-haul flights, often commending the airline for providing good value for money. On the flip side, negative reviews frequently focus on challenges with customer service, issues with flight punctuality, and baggage handling.
These mixed reviews reflect the common trade-offs associated with budget airlines, where lower prices may sometimes mean compromises in other areas. Prospective travelers considering Vueling Airlines should weigh these aspects against their priorities and expectations for travel.
