Doha – Barcelona-based airline Vueling, part of IAG group, announced today the launch of new international routes signaling a major leap in its summer operations, with Morocco’s coastal city of Essaouira being a key addition to its network.
“Vueling becomes the only airline that will have the connection between Barcelona and Essaouira this summer,” the company stated in its announcement today, spotlighting the exclusivity of this new Moroccan route.
The airline will operate flights between Barcelona and Essaouira twice weekly, with services running on Thursdays and Sundays from July 3 to October 23. This Moroccan connection forms part of Vueling’s broader international expansion, which includes new routes to Tivat (Montenegro), Rimini, Salerno (Italy), and Tirana (Albania).
The expansion comes as the airline adds three new aircraft to its Barcelona fleet in 2025, increasing its weekly seat capacity by 9% compared to summer 2024. Vueling plans to offer 16 million seats from Barcelona during summer 2025, connecting the Spanish city with more than 90 destinations, including 70 international and over 20 domestic routes.
“These new connections not only reinforce our base principle, but also consolidate our commitment to connect Barcelona with unique international destinations,” said Jordi Pla, Vueling’s Network and Strategy Director.
Essaouira, the newest Moroccan addition to Vueling’s network, is known for its rich cultural heritage and coastal appeal.
The UNESCO-listed city features a historic medina with a grid system of streets, traditional souks, and significant landmarks including the Skala de la Ville fortified walls with their bronze cannons.
The coastal destination has gained recognition for its artistic atmosphere and cultural significance. The city hosts the annual Gnaoua and World Music Festival in June, celebrating traditional Gnawa music.
The city’s position on Morocco’s Atlantic coast has also established it as a prominent location for surfing and kitesurfing, particularly during the summer months when conditions are ideal for beginners.
With this expansion, Vueling continues to strengthen its position as a key operator at Barcelona-El Prat airport, having programmed more than 27 million seats across its entire network for the summer season.
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