By Bryce Casson, Founder · Cardocrat · Updated June 2026
The short answer: Iberia Plus uses Avios, and for years it offered one of the best transatlantic deals in the hobby: off-peak business class to Madrid for 34,000 Avios one-way. In May 2025 Iberia removed its longstanding award chart and raised rates by roughly 10 to 20 percent, pushing that East Coast business award to 40,500 Avios and others from 42,500 to 50,500. It is still good value, just no longer the steal it was.
The legendary 34,000-Avios sweet spot
Iberia Plus shares the Avios currency with British Airways, Aer Lingus, and Qatar, and it long stood out for one redemption: off-peak business class between the US East Coast and Madrid for just 34,000 Avios one-way, a lie-flat transatlantic seat for fewer points than many domestic awards. That rate survived untouched for years while the rest of the industry raised prices, which made it a favorite of award travelers. See best points for Avios.
The May 2025 devaluation
In May 2025 Iberia removed its published award charts and raised redemption rates by about 10 to 20 percent. The famous 34,000-Avios off-peak business award to Madrid rose to 40,500, and off-peak business from cities like Dallas, Miami, or Los Angeles went from 42,500 Avios to 50,500, a roughly 19 percent hike. Economy rates dipped slightly, but the premium-cabin value that defined Iberia took the hit. After years of stability, the sweet spot was finally trimmed.
Still a deal, just smaller
Even after the increase, a lie-flat business seat to Spain for 40,500 Avios is excellent compared with most transatlantic awards, so Iberia remains one of the better uses of Avios. The play is unchanged: book off-peak dates, feed Avios from Amex, Chase, Capital One, Citi, and Bilt, often with transfer bonuses, and move them only for a confirmed booking. Watch for the next increase, since the chart is no longer published. See the devaluation overview.
Frequently asked questions
Did Iberia devalue its Avios?
Yes. In May 2025 Iberia removed its published award charts and raised redemption rates by roughly 10 to 20 percent, including its famous off-peak business class to Madrid, which rose from 34,000 Avios one-way to 40,500.
How much is Iberia business class to Spain now?
Off-peak business between the US East Coast and Madrid is now 40,500 Avios one-way, up from 34,000, and from cities like Dallas, Miami, or Los Angeles it runs about 50,500 Avios off-peak, up from 42,500. It remains strong value despite the hike.
Is Iberia still a good use of Avios?
Yes. Even after the 2025 increase, a lie-flat business seat to Spain for around 40,500 Avios off-peak beats most transatlantic awards. Book off-peak dates and transfer Avios in only for a confirmed booking.
Where do Iberia Avios come from?
From Avios-earning bank programs including Amex, Chase, Capital One, Citi, and Bilt, frequently with transfer bonuses. Iberia shares Avios with British Airways, Aer Lingus, and Qatar, so balances can be combined.
Bryce Casson, Founder of Cardocrat. Every card is ranked by what it actually returns, with all points valued at a flat 1 cent and offers verified against issuer sources. About the author.
