International Airlines Group (IAG) has appointed Rafael Jiménez Hoyos as the new CEO of its long-haul airline, LEVEL, effective from October 1, 2024. Jiménez Hoyos will replace Fernando Candela, who is retiring after a successful career with the group, where he held key roles such as CEO of LEVEL, President of Iberia, and Director of Transformation at IAG.
Jiménez Hoyos, who previously served as Iberia’s Director of Production, brings over a decade of experience within IAG, having joined Iberia in 2013. His career includes leadership positions in Iberia Express and Vueling, along with a deep aviation background as a former pilot in both the commercial and military sectors. Luis Gallego, CEO of IAG, highlighted Jiménez Hoyos’ impact on Iberia: “The work of Rafael Jiménez Hoyos has been fundamental in achieving excellent operational standards, positioning Iberia as one of the most punctual airlines in the world.”
Jiménez Hoyos will lead LEVEL through a critical growth phase as the airline completes the process of obtaining its Air Operator Certificate (AOC). LEVEL, which operates out of Barcelona-El Prat Airport, is expected to expand its fleet from six to eight aircraft by 2026 and continues to increase capacity on its North American routes.
Commenting on the transition, Gallego praised Candela’s leadership: “I want to deeply thank Fernando Candela for his extraordinary work and commitment since assuming leadership of LEVEL in 2019, where he has overseen its transformation and expansion.”
LEVEL has already ramped up its operations, increasing capacity to New York, Los Angeles, San Francisco, and Boston, as well as consolidating routes to Santiago de Chile and Buenos Aires. In 2023, LEVEL reported a double-digit operating margin and an on-time performance exceeding 85%. The airline also launched a new route to Miami, further cementing its role as Barcelona’s primary long-haul operator.
With these developments, LEVEL expects to offer nearly one million seats in 2024, nearly double its 2019 capacity. “LEVEL will continue to connect Barcelona with the world, driving the development of the city’s international hub,” added Gallego.
