SEVEN SEAS VOYAGER Flight from Madrid Barajas to London Gatwick with Iberia Express

Flying Iberia Express Business Class from Madrid to London Gatwick turned out to be one of those rare short-haul experiences that genuinely exceed expectations. European business class can often feel predictable—sometimes even underwhelming—but this flight delivered a refreshing contrast. The journey started on a high note at Madrid-Barajas Airport, where the Business Lounge offered a surprisingly pleasant pre-flight escape. Spacious, modern, and well stocked, it provided a calm and comfortable environment that instantly set the tone for what was to come. Boarding was smooth, the flight was right on time, and the cabin was not particularly busy, which added to the overall sense of ease. Iberia Express impressed me with a strong hard product for such a short route: clean, well-maintained seating, good legroom, and a cabin layout that felt distinctly more premium than expected. But the real highlight was the soft product. The crew were warm, attentive, and genuinely pleasant, offering the kind of thoughtful service that makes a lasting difference. Nothing felt rushed or routine; instead, every interaction felt personal and sincere. The in-flight meal was another pleasant surprise—simple, tasty, and served with a level of care that elevated the experience even further. When comparing the entire journey to British Airways’ Club Europe on the same route, the difference was striking. Iberia Express delivered a smoother, friendlier, and altogether more polished service, proving that premium doesn’t always come from the airline you expect. Overall, this was a flight that not only met expectations—but quietly surpassed them. Tools