Iberia's westbound crossing takes 9+ hours against the jet stream; Air Europa undercuts on price.
The westbound crossing takes 9+ hours due to North Atlantic headwinds -- roughly 90 minutes longer than the eastbound return. Iberia and Air Europa both depart MAD around midday, arriving JFK afternoon local time. This timing works well for New York hotel check-ins but means you lose a full day of travel. Madrid to New York fares move quickly, so flexible date checks usually save money.
Spanish citizens need an ESTA ($21, valid 2 years) under the US Visa Waiver Program. Apply online at least 72 hours before departure. JFK Terminal 7 (Iberia's current terminal) is older but functional; Terminal 1 (New Terminal One, opening in phases) will eventually host oneworld carriers. For Madrid - New York, review carrier mix (Iberia, Air Europa, American, United) before choosing a fare bundle.
Business class on Iberia's A350 includes lie-flat seats with aisle access and excellent Spanish gastronomy. If price is priority, Air Europa's 787 business class is noticeably cheaper. Economy fares bottom out in late October to February, typically EUR 300-450 return. Madrid - New York planning works best when transfer times and baggage rules are checked together.
North Atlantic jet stream headwinds blow west to east at 100-200 km/h, adding roughly 90 minutes to the MAD-JFK crossing compared to the JFK-MAD return. Airlines factor this into scheduling.
No. Spain is part of the US Visa Waiver Program. Apply for an ESTA online ($21, valid 2 years) at least 72 hours before departure.
JFK is the primary hub for Iberia and Air Europa nonstops. Newark receives some American/United codeshares. JFK is better connected to Manhattan via AirTrain + subway. Choose based on your final destination in the NYC metro area.
