LATAM and Iberia news: status recognition, points accumulation and comprehensive benefits for frequent flyers

Before going into the details of the announcement, it is worth mentioning one key aspect: LATAM today is not part of any global alliance. After exiting oneworld, the South American group chose a different strategy, based on targeted bilateral partnerships with some of the world's leading carriers.

In recent years, LATAM has built a network of agreements with companies such as. Delta, Air France-KLM, Virgin Atlantic, Qatar Airways, Japan Airlines and now Iberia, effectively creating a "tailor-made alliance" designed more for business and frequent flyers than for formal etiquette.

And it is precisely in this context that the agreement with Iberia should be read: not a simple codeshare, but a true integration of loyalty programs on one of the most strategic routes ever, that between Europe and Latin America.

A move that makes this announcement even more interesting, because it shows how LATAM is building a premium ecosystem without going through the big traditional alliances.

In practice: if you are elite LATAM and fly Iberia, or elite Iberia and fly LATAM, from the beginning of 2026 you will have the same benefits you have on your "home" airline.

A strategic move that strengthens one of the most important intercontinental traffic corridors, that between Latin America and Europe.

What really changes for passengers

From the traveler's point of view, this arrangement is much more interesting than just "reciprocal earning."

When a LATAM passenger flies with Iberia-and vice versa-they will be able to take advantage of:

• Priority at all stages of the journey
  Priority check-in, boarding and baggage claim
• VIP lounge access
  Also flying with a partner, depending on the status held
• Free place selection
• Extra baggage included
  Regardless of which airline you fly with

Bottom line, status recognized for all purposes, not only on paper.

Mileage accrual and qualifying points on both companies

Another key aspect for those playing for the long term:

• Members LATAM Pass will continue to accumulate miles and qualifying points flying Iberia
• Members Iberia Club will gain Avios and Elite Points flying LATAM

Not only that: as of February 1, 2026 will also come extra bonus miles for LATAM Pass members on tickets sold by Iberia and operated by LATAM and affiliates, based on status held.

Translated: it will be much easier maintaining and scaling status Taking advantage of both companies.

The "LATAM Pass Global Experience" is born.

This new level of integration is part of the project called "LATAM Pass Global Experience", designed to extend benefits to strategic partners as well.

The stated goal is clear:
offer a more consistent, smooth and premium experience for those who regularly fly between different continents.

Not surprisingly, LATAM speaks of an ecosystem from over 53 million members.

Why this is very interesting news for Italian frequent flyers

From the TFC perspective, this agreement is far from minor:

• Iberia is one of the main hubs for traffic to South America
• LATAM is the dominant player in almost all Latin American markets
• Avios are one of the most flexible currencies in Europe

With this agreement:

• Who has Iberia Club status Will finally be able to enjoy real benefits on LATAM
• Those who frequently fly between Italy, Spain and South America will be able to Focus earning and status on a single ecosystem
• It becomes much more interesting to plan mixed status runs Iberia + LATAM

In other words: a new "premium" corridor opens up perfect for those playing with status, Avios and upgrades.

In conclusion

It's not just a simple fronting partnership: here we are talking about real recognition of status, lounge access, luggage, priority and qualifying bonuses.

For those who frequently fly between Europe and Latin America, this agreement really changes the rules of the game Allowing for a more comfortable and beneficial journey

And as always, it will be interesting to see How generous the practical implementation will be... because between theory and application, in the loyalty world, there is often quite a difference.

• Avios