Iberia, the Spanish airline, has stopped its winter schedule on the Madrid to Washington Dulles route. This decision follows the airline’s historic first Airbus A321XLR flight. The suspension will last through the winter, and Iberia will restart flights in March 2025.

The carrier plans to resume its operations to Washington in early March 2025, starting with 14 weekly flights. By April, Iberia will increase flights to 26. No airline will operate direct services between Madrid and Washington during the first quarter of 2025. This leaves passengers with only connecting flights. The suspension ties to Washington’s low travel demand in winter, with less leisure and business traffic.

Iberia’s decision reflects a broader trend among airlines serving Washington. In winter, Washington does not attract as many tourists. The business travel slowdown also contributes. Like Iberia, other airlines such as ITA Airways have temporarily halted services to Washington for the season.

The A321XLR, which Iberia recently added, offers long-range travel. The aircraft can fly 4,700 nautical miles and burns less fuel. This makes it perfect for long-haul routes. Iberia has used the A321XLR for its Boston route and plans to expand in the U.S.

Iberia maintains a strong network in the U.S., with flights from Madrid to cities like New York, Los Angeles, and Chicago. The A321XLR allows Iberia to strengthen its U.S. presence and offer more comfort to passengers.

Related stories:

• Iberia Enhances Transatlantic Business Class Experience
• Iberia Expands Reach with New Madrid to Tokyo Direct Flights
• United Airlines to Welcome New Airbus A321XLR in 2026
• March 2025: Be First to Fly Wizz Air’s Exclusive London to Jeddah Route on the New A321XLR
• Air India Upgrades Flights on Popular Delhi-Washington Route