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British Airways’ IAG stablemate Iberia has announced that it will be launching direct flights between Madrid and Washington Dulles next Summer.

The precise launch date hasn’t been released yet, but the intention is to operate up to five flights per week. The non-stop flights to the US capital will be operated by Iberia’s A330-300s carrying up to 292 people, 29 in Business Class, as well as 21 in Premium Economy and 242 in Economy cabins.

New Avios redemption option

Redeeming Avios via Iberia Plus (rather than British Airways Executive Club) for Iberia Business Class flights remains one of the best Avios sweet spots around – particularly if you can travel during off peak dates!

According to GC Mapper, Madrid to Washington clocks in at 3,816 miles one way:

That means that you would need the following amounts of Avios for a one way flight:

Off Peak

• Blue Class Economy: 17,000 Avios
• Full Economy: 22,000 Avios
• Premium Economy: 25,500 Avios
• Business Class: 34,000 Avios

Peak

• Blue Class Economy: 20,000 Avios
• Full Economy: 28,000 Avios
• Premium Economy: 35,000 Avios
• Business Class: 50,000 Avios

You can check which dates are Off Peak and which dates are Peak on the Iberia website here.

Taxes and surcharges should be in the region of £100 each way, although as the flights aren’t bookable yet it’s impossible to confirm that 100%.

Bottom line

Another opportunity to fly Transatlantic Business Class for 34,000 Avios (+~£100) each way is definitely something to be welcomed. I’ve only ever spent a few days in Washington, but really enjoyed my time there and would happily return.

Getting to Madrid is usually cheap and easy from most parts of the UK (whether you prefer to use Avios or cash) and I love having a night or 2 in Madrid on my way to somewhere else, so I don’t personally see having to re-position there as a disadvantage. Those with stricter holiday schedules may disagree, of course.

Are you interested in trying the new Iberia route?