Vueling Airlines – Your Complete Guide 2025

Vueling Airlines is a Spanish low-cost carrier that carries tens of millions of passengers each year across Europe, Africa, and parts of Asia. As a subsidiary of International Airlines Group (IAG), it operates more than 120 routes from its base in Barcelona. This guide covers ownership, check-in procedures, baggage allowances, customer service contacts, and everything else travellers need to know for 2025.

Founded in 2004, Vueling has grown to become the second-largest low-cost airline in Spain, behind Ryanair, but with a different corporate structure. It is owned by the same holding group that controls British Airways and Iberia, something that influences its loyalty programme and codeshare agreements. For anyone flying with Vueling, understanding the specifics of its baggage policy and check-in windows can make the difference between a smooth trip and unexpected fees.

This article compiles all the key facts from official help pages and independent sources, giving a clear picture of what Vueling offers in 2025.

Who Owns Vueling Airlines?

• Vueling is the second-largest low-cost carrier in Spain after Ryanair, but owned by the same group as British Airways and Iberia (IAG).
• Check‑in opens 7 days before departure online; online check‑in closes 2 hours before departure for most flights.
• Cabin baggage allowance is one piece (55x40x20 cm) with weight limit 10 kg unless you book a fare that includes priority.
• Hold baggage limits vary by fare; basic fare allows no hold bag, Economy allows 23 kg, Priority includes both cabin + hold.
• Customer service is available via phone, live chat on help.vueling.com, and social media; UK‑specific number is +44 330 818 6000.
• Trustpilot rating is 3.4 stars based on over 20,000 reviews; TripAdvisor average is 3.5 stars (as of early 2025).

How to Check In for a Vueling Flight

Can I check in online for Vueling?

Yes. Online check‑in is available from 7 days up to 2 hours before departure for most flights. You can access it through the Vueling website or mobile app. After checking in, you receive a boarding pass that can be stored digitally or printed.

What are Vueling check‑in times?

Online check‑in closes 2 hours before departure. For airport check‑in, Vueling recommends arriving at least 2 hours early for domestic or Schengen flights and 3 hours for international flights. If you miss the online window, airport kiosks remain open until 1 hour before departure, but a fee may apply.

Does Vueling have mobile check‑in?

Yes. The Vueling app allows passengers to check in, download boarding passes, and receive real‑time flight alerts. The app is available for both iOS and Android.

What Is Vueling’s Baggage Allowance?

What size is Vueling cabin baggage?

The free underseat bag allowed on all fares measures 40 × 30 × 20 cm. An additional overhead cabin bag (55 × 40 × 20 cm, up to 10 kg) is included only on certain fares or if you purchase priority boarding. The Vueling help centre states that if your cabin bag exceeds the allowed dimensions at the gate, it may be checked in for a higher fee.

How much does extra baggage cost on Vueling?

Checked bags can be purchased in 15 kg, 20 kg, 25 kg, and 30 kg options. Each passenger is limited to one bag per weight tier. Maximum dimensions are 158 cm total (length + width + height). Bags booked in advance are significantly cheaper than buying at the airport. Overweight bags are charged €12 per extra kilogram, up to a maximum of 32 kg per bag.

Can I take sports equipment on Vueling?

Vueling accepts sports equipment as checked baggage, but it must be declared in advance. Fees depend on the type and weight of the equipment. The official help centre recommends booking sports items online before the flight to avoid higher charges at the airport.

How to Contact Vueling Customer Service

What is Vueling’s contact number for the UK?

A widely cited UK/English‑language source lists the phone number as 011 34 931 51 81 58. Additionally, the Vueling help centre states that baggage and other changes can be handled through the Customer Services Centre. For UK callers, the number +44 330 818 6000 has been reported on third‑party sites, though official confirmation remains limited.

Does Vueling have a live chat?

Yes, the help.vueling.com website offers a live chat and a virtual assistant. Availability may vary depending on the time of day and volume of requests. The chat is a free way to ask simple questions about bookings, baggage, and flights.

How do I send a complaint to Vueling?

Complaints can be submitted through the online form on the Vueling help centre. You can also contact them via social media channels such as Twitter (@Vueling) and Facebook Messenger. For post‑travel claims, such as EU261 compensation, the official website provides a dedicated claims form.

• Phone: 011 34 931 51 81 58 (standard international rates apply) or +44 330 818 6000 (UK).
• Live chat: available on help.vueling.com.
• Social media: Twitter (@Vueling) and Facebook Messenger.
• Head office: Vueling Airlines, Vueling Business Plaza, El Prat de Llobregat, Barcelona, Spain.

Is Vueling a Good Airline? Reviews and Reputation

What do Vueling reviews on Trustpilot say?

Trustpilot aggregates user feedback for Vueling and shows an average rating of 3.4 stars based on over 20,000 reviews. Ratings fluctuate as new reviews are added, so this figure should be considered a snapshot. Many positive reviews highlight punctuality and competitive fares, while negative ones often mention fees and legroom.

How many stars is Vueling on TripAdvisor?

TripAdvisor’s aggregated rating for Vueling is roughly 3.5 stars. Again, this average changes over time. Reviews frequently advise travellers to carefully study baggage rules before flying to avoid surprises at the airport.

Is Vueling safe to fly with?

Vueling is an IATA‑member airline and holds an IOSA (IATA Operational Safety Audit) certification, which is the global benchmark for airline safety. It is also regulated by the Spanish aviation authority (AESA). There is no evidence to suggest any safety concerns beyond the normal standards for European carriers.

How to Manage a Vueling Booking (Changes and Cancellations)

Can I change my Vueling flight date?

Yes. Flight changes are possible through the “Manage my booking” section on Vueling’s website or app. Fees vary depending on the fare type and how far in advance the change is made. Basic fares generally incur higher charges.

How do I cancel a Vueling booking and get a refund?

If Vueling cancels a flight, you are entitled to rebooking or a full refund under EU Regulation 261/2004. Voluntary cancellations by the passenger are usually subject to the fare rules; many basic fares are non‑refundable. You can cancel online and see the options available for your specific booking.

What is Vueling’s cancellation policy?

The policy follows standard EU261 rules. If the cancellation is within the airline’s control and less than 14 days before departure, compensation may be due. For voluntary cancellations, you may receive a travel voucher or lose the fare, depending on the booking conditions.

What Is the History of Vueling Airlines?

1. 2004 — Vueling founded by a group of entrepreneurs led by Carlos Muñoz and Lázaro Ros.
2. 2005 — First flight from Barcelona to Ibiza.
3. 2006 — IPO on Barcelona Stock Exchange.
4. 2009 — Merger with Clickair (owned by Iberia and others); IAG takes a controlling stake.
5. 2013 — IAG acquires Vueling outright (97.52% stake); Vueling becomes fully owned subsidiary.
6. 2024 — 20th anniversary; fleet expansion and new routes to Africa and Middle East.
7. 2025 — Continues to serve over 120 destinations; focus on punctuality and digital services.

What Is Known and What Remains Unclear About Vueling?

Where Does Vueling Fit in the European Low-Cost Market?

Vueling competes primarily with Ryanair Small Bag Size – Exact Dimensions, Weight & Rules, easyJet, and Wizz Air. As part of IAG, it benefits from synergies with British Airways and Iberia, including a shared Avios loyalty programme and codeshare agreements. Its strength lies in an extensive Spanish domestic network and connections to secondary European cities. Weaknesses include mixed customer feedback regarding legroom and ancillary fees. Vueling has been investing in digital tools such as a mobile app and self‑service check‑in to improve the passenger experience. It positions itself as a “value carrier” rather than an ultra‑low‑cost airline, offering optional extras but still keeping base fares competitive.

What Do Official Sources Say About Vueling?

“Vueling S.A. is a Spanish low‑cost airline based in Viladecans in Greater Barcelona. Vueling serves 122 destinations in Africa, Asia, and Europe.” — Wikipedia

“You can check in online from 7 days up to 2 hours before departure. Remember to bring your boarding pass.” — Official Vueling Help Center

“Good for short haul, but be careful with baggage fees. Paid extra at check‑in.” — TripAdvisor Review

“Vueling continues to be a key contributor to IAG’s short‑haul network with a focus on cost efficiency and customer satisfaction.” — IAG Corporate (2024 Annual Report)

What Is the Key Takeaway About Vueling Airlines?

Vueling offers a broad European network at competitive prices, but the real cost of a ticket depends heavily on how you handle baggage and check‑in. Paying for extras in advance, arriving on time, and using online tools can save both time and money. For travellers looking for a straightforward low‑cost option with the backing of a major airline group, Vueling is a reliable choice. For a similar low-cost comparison, read our guide on Ryanair Small Bag Size – Exact Dimensions, Weight & Rules.

Frequently Asked Questions About Vueling