Trip Report | Flying low cost in Spain | Granada to Barcelona | Vueling | Airbus A320

This was my first time flying a low cost carrier in Europe and I was both excited to try a new airline but also worried about how I’d gel with the LCC model. Wow, could I sound my snobby if I tried? Probably not but, truth be told I’m very attached to my loyalty programs, so branching out into unaligned airlines, let alone an LCC is a big move for me.

To pop my LCC cherry in Europe, I arrived at the airport ridiculously early. Mainly because the bus schedule between Granada and the airport was sparse. I had the choice of arriving 3 hours early, or 50 minutes early. The latter gave rise to the prospect of me becoming one of those stereotypical EasyJet passengers arriving late and missing their flight from the British airport TV series of the early 2000’s. As such, I opted for the early option to avoid the pain of running late. I also had forgotten to apply sunscreen this morning so the idea of another 2 hours wandering Granada in the sun was not a viable option for this pasty white / sunburnt traveller.

Flight Details:
Route: Granada (GRX) to Barcelona (BCN)
Airline: Vueling
Flight: VY2015
Aircraft: Airbus A320 (EC-LOP)
Seat: 6F
Cabin Class: Economy
Scheduled Departure: 9 May 2022 @ 18:35 – Actual Departure: 18:29
Scheduled Arrival: 9 May 2022 @ 20:05 – Landed at 19:48
Duration: 1:30 scheduled, 1:19 actual.

Final thoughts on my first European LCC experience:
This flight popped by European LCC carrier cherry and I must say, I kinda liked it. I did like the choice when booking to pay for what I wanted instead of just a one size fits all approach, but at the same time missed the priority lanes, no risk baggage allowances, lounge before the flight and the feeling one gets by holding airline status. I really appreciated the buy on board options and being able to pick what I wanted from a broad selection as I find that those free snacks on legacy airlines are getting worse as each year passes. I can see buy on board being something I’d be fond of embracing in the future.

I also liked the convenience of flying direct to my destination (I know, I just said I preferred to fly direct – I must be unwell), although given how friendly the crew were, wouldn’t have minded another sector along the way. I’d fly Vueling again providing the price was competitive. That’s probably the only gripe I have as it’s always a bit hard to compare with the LCC’s as often once you add baggage and snack you’re at the same price as a legacy. Overall an enjoyable flight and was glad to have tried something new and come away feeling good about it.

Chapters:
0:00 - Intro
0:12 - Airport Arrival
1:38 - Post Security Terminal
2:50 - Boarding
4:25 - Take Off
6:45 - Cabin Tour
7:26 - Food on Board
8:22 - Approach and Landing
9:48 - Arrival in Barcelona
10:59 - Final Thoughts