Originally Posted by Darren
One additional point. I got off in Barcelona anyway so this didnt affect me but you will need to offload in BCN, go through customs, and reload onto the airplane to continue to Madrid. Plan accordingly since you need to take all your carry-ons with you.
I was on this flight, IB6977, in February. There was a snack service shortly after departure from CAI, which was OK, despite the fact that I can't seem to remember what it actually was! Upon arrival at BCN, the MAD bound passengers deplane (with carry-on's) but stay airside in Terminal B. The IB lounge wasn't open yet (5am), however it only took 30 minutes to re-board the same aircraft (with a different crew). Upon arrival in MAD, the IB/OW lounge in Terminal 1 near gate 27 was open and it is an oasis of calm compared to the rest of the airport. Unfortunately, it is accessible only for international (non-Schengen) flights.
However, I am anxiously waiting to see when/where the new IB flat seat biz product will be available before flying them long-haul again. I will continue to fly IB only for a limited number of domestic and European sectors.
