Barcelona-based low-cost carrier Vueling has confirmed it will postpone the entry into service of its new Boeing 737 MAX fleet, pushing the target date to the first half of 2027. According to Spanish media reports, the delay stems from the protracted certification process for RECARO seats slated for installation. Vueling has acknowledged it is in discussions with RECARO to resolve the issue, though the setback is expected to last several months.
The aircraft originate from International Airlines Group (IAG)'s 2019 Paris Air Show order for 150 737 MAX jets (50 firm orders plus 100 options). Vueling was initially allocated 50 aircraft; in May 2026 IAG exercised 10 options, raising Vueling's allocation to 60.
Per ch-aviation data dated 2 September 2026, Vueling operates 137 aircraft, predominantly 97 Airbus A320ceos alongside A320neos, A321neos, A321ceos and A319s. The airline intends to transition to an all-Boeing fleet over several years.
The first batch will be the 737 MAX 8-200 configured with 197 seats — eight more than the current 189-seat A320 layout. The 737 MAX 10 (IAG has at least 25 on order) will join later, contingent on type certification expected in the fourth quarter of 2026.
Vueling's inaugural commercial 737 MAX flight was scheduled for December 2026 on the Barcelona (BCN) to Alicante (ALC) route, followed by services to Sevilla (SVQ), Palma de Mallorca (PMI) and Rome Fiumicino (FCO). That schedule must now be revised.
Seat certification delays have recently affected other European carriers: Lufthansa has flown some aircraft without its new Allegris First Class seats, and KLM is expected to debut its Airbus A350s without a business class cabin.
