Wednesday, April 17, 2024
The third annual opening of Espacio Iberia, located at the prime retail location of Gran Vía 48 in Madrid. Spanning 1,100 square meters over two floors, this venue invites both Iberia’s customers and the public to immerse themselves in the airline’s offerings. Visitors can experience virtual reality, step into a replica of one of Iberia’s earliest aircraft, and explore the on-board services of the new generation A350 across its three cabin types: Business, Premium Economy, and Economy.
Additionally, attendees can sample an array of wines, beers, coffees, and other products from Iberia’s destinations, and engage in the Talento a Bordo program’s activities and meetings.
Espacio Iberia has become a key tourist draw on Madrid’s main commercial street, presenting all content in Spanish, English, and Japanese. This is in anticipation of Iberia’s direct flights to Tokyo starting October 27. The venue is open to the public free of charge daily from 12 noon to 9 pm, including holidays.
A Space for Innovation
This year’s Espacio Iberia introduces cutting-edge experiences such as the Apple Vision Pro virtual reality, blending physical and digital worlds and offering insights into airplane engine mechanics. Using Meta’s Oculus Quest VR, visitors can enter a metaverse version of Espacio Iberia, exploring immersive travel experiences aboard Iberia’s A350s.
New services like My Iberia, a personalized travel management area, and a biometric boarding service that simplifies the boarding process are also featured.
Commitment to Sustainability
Information panels throughout Espacio Iberia detail the airline’s sustainability efforts, including the adoption of A350 and A320 aircraft which reduce emissions by 35%, the use of sustainable fuels, and initiatives aimed at achieving net zero emissions by 2050. The space operates on 100% renewable energy and incorporates advanced technologies like 5G and video analytics.
A Trip to the Past
A highlight is the recreated Rohrbach Roland, the first aircraft in Iberia’s fleet from 1927. Guests can explore the cabin, don period costumes for a historical experience, and even take home a video memento of their journey through aviation history.
Flight Simulator Experience
Visitors can immerse themselves in the role of a pilot through a flight simulator experience at the Espacio Iberia, enabling them to virtually take off and land at prominent airports within Iberia’s network, including cities like Madrid, London, Paris, Mexico City, Buenos Aires, Bogotá, and Doha. Accompanied by an instructor, participants will engage in a 10-minute simulated flight.
Business Class Recreation and Dining Experience
In line with past editions, Espacio Iberia features a replica of a New Generation A350 aircraft cabin complete with Business, Premium Economy, and Economy class seating. This setup offers guests a taste of Iberia’s in-flight experience without leaving the ground. Visitors can sample the airline’s in-flight cuisine, which features Mediterranean-inspired dishes prepared by DO&CO, using high-quality, seasonal local ingredients.
Culinary and Cultural Tastings
Espacio Iberia will host a variety of tastings over the coming weeks. These include wine tastings with a sommelier explaining the nuances of top Spanish wines, beer tastings guided by a Mahou brewing expert, and coffee tastings with a Lavazza specialist. Additionally, this year marks the celebration of 75 years of flights to Puerto Rico, featuring tastings of Puerto Rican rum. DO&CO will also demonstrate live cooking sessions, showcasing how meals are prepared on flights.
Advanced Booking for Activities
All these activities require prior booking through the espacioiberia.com website due to limited availability.
Premium Lounge Access
During the opening dates of Espacio Iberia, Iberia Plus Platinum, Infinita, and Infinita Prime members, as well as passengers with long-haul Business class reservations, can access the Premium Lounge. This exclusive area offers panoramic views of Madrid’s Gran Vía and provides a space for relaxation and enjoyment of snacks and drinks, including tapas, wines, beers, coffees, and cocktails. Non-members can join Iberia Plus at the event and participate in a draw to win up to 30,000 Avios.
Ticket Purchases and Exclusive Offers
A designated area will be available for buying tickets and managing reservations, where exclusive discounts are offered.
The Espacio Iberia Store
The store features a selection of Iberia’s iconic merchandise, including aircraft models, historical posters, the Las Meninas salt and pepper shakers from the Business class service, and the red bag from the Teresa Helbig-designed uniforms.
Talent on Board Program
The Talento a Bordo initiative has its dedicated space in Espacio Iberia, showcasing permanent and temporary exhibitions. The program promotes Spanish talent globally. Upcoming events include various public talks and workshops designed to enhance social skills and cultural engagement.
Wednesday, May 1, 2024
