Vueling adds more Barcelona–Madrid flights as rail disruption leaves passengers seeking alternatives

Vueling is expanding its Barcelona–Madrid flight services as ongoing issues with Spain’s high-speed rail network force passengers to seek alternative transportation options. The airline announced on November 5 that it will continue operating the route through the summer of 2027, adding 260,000 seats to the connection, bringing total capacity to nearly 350,000.

Vueling currently plans to increase daily flights on the busiest days and times, potentially reaching five daily flights, but has not yet provided specific dates for peak capacity. The airline's decision to extend the service comes as a response to increased demand, especially from business travelers who frequently travel between Barcelona and Madrid.

Recent data from the CNMC shows that passenger numbers on the Madrid–Barcelona high-speed route dropped by 518,000 compared to the same period in 2025 due to service disruptions, with speed restrictions and longer travel times making the train less appealing for some. Vueling will also introduce another daily flight from Barcelona to Seville in January 2027, increasing the route's daily services to eight.

While passengers should check Vueling's current timetable for updated information, these changes offer more flexibility for travelers while rail services face operational challenges.