What is Level Airlines? The No-Frills Flight Frontier

Level Airlines is a low-cost, long-haul airline brand owned by the International Airlines Group (IAG), the same parent company that owns British Airways, Iberia, Aer Lingus, and Vueling. Think of it as the budget-conscious globetrotter’s passport to transatlantic and intra-European adventures. They offer a stripped-down flying experience, allowing passengers to choose and pay only for the services they need, keeping base fares remarkably competitive.

Decoding the Level Experience: More Than Just a Price Tag

Level is more than just cheap flights; it’s a philosophy. It’s about empowering the passenger to customize their journey, cutting out unnecessary expenses and tailoring the trip to their individual needs and budget. But understanding how this model translates into the actual flying experience is crucial before booking your ticket.

The Core Offering: Bare Bones and Budget-Friendly

The fundamental offering is a basic economy fare that gets you from point A to point B. This includes:

• A seat on the aircraft.
• One small personal item (think a purse, laptop bag, or small backpack) that fits under the seat.

Everything else, from checked baggage and seat selection to meals and entertainment, comes at an extra cost. This unbundling is the key to their low fares, as it allows passengers who travel light and don’t require extra frills to avoid paying for services they won’t use.

The Customization Conundrum: Build Your Own Flight

The beauty (and potential pitfall) of Level lies in its customization options. You can add:

• Checked Baggage: Fees vary depending on the route and when you purchase it (online, at the airport, or via call center). Pre-booking online is almost always cheaper.
• Seat Selection: Choose your preferred seat, whether it’s a window, aisle, or extra legroom seat.
• Meals: Pre-order meals or purchase snacks and drinks on board.
• In-flight Entertainment: Access streaming services via your personal device; Wi-Fi is available for purchase on some flights.
• Comfort Kits: Offering blankets, pillows, and eye masks for a more comfortable journey.
• Priority Boarding: Board earlier and secure overhead bin space.

Essentially, you’re building your own flight experience à la carte. This can be incredibly advantageous for budget travelers but requires careful planning and awareness of the additional costs involved. Failing to factor in these add-ons can quickly erode the initial savings you thought you were getting.

The Fleet and the Flight: What to Expect Onboard

Level operates a fleet of Airbus A330-200 and A330-300 aircraft for its long-haul routes and Airbus A320 family aircraft for its short-haul routes. The cabin layout is typically configured with two classes:

• Economy Class: Standard seating with a reasonable pitch, though potentially tighter than full-service carriers.
• Premium Economy Class: Offered on some long-haul routes, providing wider seats, more legroom, and enhanced amenities.

Don’t expect complimentary in-flight entertainment systems on the back of seats (on A330s), but you can stream entertainment to your own device, purchase Wi-Fi, and of course, bring your own books or magazines.

The IAG Advantage: Backed by Airline Expertise

Being part of IAG provides Level with significant advantages:

• Operational Support: Access to IAG’s infrastructure, maintenance, and ground handling services.
• Brand Recognition: Leveraging the reputation and trust associated with IAG’s established brands.
• Network Integration: Potential for connecting flights with other IAG airlines, expanding travel options.

This backing provides a degree of stability and reliability that some other low-cost carriers may lack.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs) about Level Airlines

1. What destinations does Level Airlines fly to?

Level’s routes have evolved over time, often adjusting to market demand. They primarily focus on long-haul routes between Europe and North/South America. You’ll typically find flights from cities like Barcelona, Vienna, and Paris to destinations such as New York, Boston, Los Angeles, Buenos Aires, and Punta Cana. It’s always best to check their official website for the most up-to-date route map.

2. How does Level Airlines compare to other low-cost airlines?

Level distinguishes itself through its focus on long-haul travel. While other low-cost carriers may offer some transatlantic routes, Level has carved out a niche in this specific market. They compete with airlines like Norwegian (though Norwegian’s long-haul operations have significantly changed), Norse Atlantic Airways, and PLAY but also with major carriers offering deeply discounted basic economy fares. The main difference lies in the breadth of add-on options and the overall “unbundled” approach.

3. What is the baggage allowance on Level Airlines?

The basic fare includes only one small personal item (typically 45 x 35 x 20 cm). Checked baggage is an additional cost, and the fees vary based on the route, weight, and when you purchase the allowance. It’s always cheaper to pre-book baggage allowance online rather than at the airport. Standard checked baggage allowance is usually 23kg.

4. How can I check in for my Level Airlines flight?

You can check in online via the Level Airlines website or mobile app, typically starting 24 hours before your flight. You can also check in at the airport, but this may incur a fee depending on the fare type and route. Online check-in is always recommended to save time and potentially money.

5. Does Level Airlines offer in-flight entertainment?

Level Airlines does not typically offer seat-back entertainment screens, especially on A330 aircraft. Instead, they offer streaming in-flight entertainment accessible via your personal device. You can purchase Wi-Fi access on some flights, allowing you to stream movies, TV shows, or browse the internet. Remember to download content onto your device beforehand to avoid relying solely on Wi-Fi.

6. Are meals included in the Level Airlines fare?

Meals are not included in the basic fare. You can pre-order meals online when booking your flight or manage your booking later. A selection of snacks and drinks is also available for purchase on board. Bringing your own food and drinks (within airport security regulations) can also save money.

7. What is the seating like on Level Airlines?

Level offers both Economy and Premium Economy cabins (on some routes). Economy seating is standard, with a reasonable seat pitch. Premium Economy offers wider seats, more legroom, and enhanced amenities. Consider paying for seat selection if you prefer a specific seat location, such as a window or aisle.

8. How can I contact Level Airlines customer service?

Level Airlines provides customer service through their website, mobile app, and call center. Response times can vary, so it’s best to check their website for the most up-to-date contact information and recommended channels for specific inquiries. Be patient, as low-cost carriers often prioritize efficiency over immediate customer service availability.

9. What is Level Airlines’ policy on flight changes and cancellations?

Level’s policy on flight changes and cancellations depends on the fare type purchased. Basic fares typically have restrictive change and cancellation policies, often incurring significant fees. Higher fare classes may offer more flexibility. Always review the fare conditions carefully before booking to understand the potential costs associated with changes or cancellations.

10. Can I earn frequent flyer miles on Level Airlines flights?

Since Level is part of IAG, you can usually earn Avios points which can be used across the other IAG airlines (British Airways, Iberia, Aer Lingus, and Vueling). It’s crucial to add your frequent flyer number to your booking to ensure you receive the points. The earning rate will depend on the fare class and distance flown.

11. Is Level Airlines a reliable airline?

Level benefits from being part of IAG, which provides a solid operational foundation. While delays and cancellations can happen with any airline, Level generally maintains a reasonable level of operational reliability. However, it’s always wise to purchase travel insurance to protect yourself against unforeseen circumstances.

12. Is Level Airlines a good option for families?

Level can be a good option for families on a budget, but it requires careful planning. Factor in the cost of seat selection to ensure you can sit together. Pre-order meals and snacks to avoid paying inflated prices on board. Consider the baggage allowance carefully, especially if traveling with children. Weigh the potential savings against the convenience of a full-service carrier before making a decision.