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So You’re Headed to Iceland: A Guide to Airlines That Will Get You There

Planning a trip to the land of fire and ice? Excellent choice! Iceland’s raw beauty, from the Northern Lights to its geothermal wonders, is truly unforgettable. But before you can experience the magic, you need to get there. Let’s cut to the chase: several airlines service Iceland’s international airport, Keflavík International Airport (KEF), offering a range of options for travelers from around the globe.

The primary airlines that fly to Iceland are:

Icelandair: The national carrier, providing extensive routes throughout Europe and North America.
PLAY: A low-cost Icelandic airline focusing on transatlantic routes.
Delta Air Lines: Offering seasonal service from several major US hubs.
United Airlines: Another major US carrier with seasonal flights.
British Airways: Connecting Iceland to the UK and beyond.
easyJet: A prominent low-cost carrier providing service to Iceland.
Wizz Air: A budget-friendly airline with flights from various European cities.
SAS – Scandinavian Airlines: Offering connections from Scandinavia and other European locations.
Air Canada: Providing seasonal service from Canada.
Lufthansa: Connecting Iceland to Germany and the rest of its extensive network.
Norwegian: A budget-friendly airline.
Transavia: Offering flights from France and the Netherlands.

This list isn’t exhaustive, as airlines frequently adjust their routes and schedules depending on the season and market demand. It’s always best to check directly with the airlines or use a flight comparison website to find the most up-to-date information.

Navigating Flights to Iceland: A Deeper Dive

Choosing the right airline depends on several factors, including your budget, travel dates, departure location, and desired level of comfort. Let’s delve into some key considerations.

Icelandair: The Flag Carrier Advantage

Icelandair is the stalwart of Icelandic aviation. With a history stretching back decades, they offer a robust network connecting Iceland to numerous cities in North America and Europe. One of their unique selling points is the Icelandair Stopover program, allowing passengers to extend their layover in Iceland for up to seven nights at no additional airfare, essentially getting two vacations for the price of one! This is an exceptional opportunity to explore Iceland’s wonders if you’re already flying through Keflavík.

Budget Airlines: PLAY, Wizz Air, easyJet, Norwegian, and Transavia

If budget is your primary concern, PLAY, Wizz Air, easyJet, Norwegian, and Transavia are your go-to options. These low-cost carriers often offer significantly cheaper fares than their full-service counterparts. However, be aware of potential extra costs for things like checked baggage, seat selection, and onboard meals. Read the fine print carefully to avoid surprises.

Major US Carriers: Delta and United

Delta and United are excellent choices for travelers originating from the United States. They provide seasonal service, typically during the peak tourist season (summer and shoulder seasons). Flying with these airlines often allows you to leverage frequent flyer miles and enjoy a higher level of comfort and amenities compared to budget airlines.

European Connections: British Airways, SAS, and Lufthansa

For those connecting from Europe, British Airways, SAS, and Lufthansa offer convenient options. They provide connections from major European hubs, making it easier to reach Iceland from various destinations. Lufthansa, in particular, offers a wide network via its Frankfurt and Munich hubs.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs) About Flights to Iceland

Here are some frequently asked questions to help you further plan your trip to Iceland:

Q1: What is the best time to book flights to Iceland?

A: Generally, booking flights to Iceland well in advance (several months) can help you secure better deals, especially if you’re traveling during the peak summer season. Flexibility with your travel dates can also lead to significant savings. Consider traveling during the shoulder seasons (spring or fall) for lower prices and fewer crowds.

Q2: How far in advance should I book flights to Iceland?

A: Aim to book at least 2-3 months in advance, or even earlier if traveling during peak season (June-August) or around major holidays.

Q3: Which airport do international flights arrive at in Iceland?

A: The main international airport is Keflavík International Airport (KEF), located about 50 kilometers (31 miles) southwest of Reykjavík.

Q4: How do I get from Keflavík Airport to Reykjavík?

A: Several options exist:

Airport bus transfers: The most common and affordable option. Companies like Flybus and Airport Direct offer regular transfers to Reykjavík hotels and bus stations.
Taxis: More expensive but offer door-to-door service.
Rental cars: A good option if you plan to explore Iceland extensively. You can pick up your rental car directly at the airport.
Private transfers: Can be pre-booked for a more personalized experience.

Q5: What are the baggage allowances for flights to Iceland?

A: Baggage allowances vary significantly depending on the airline and your ticket class. Check the specific baggage policies of the airline you’re flying with before packing. Budget airlines often have stricter limits and charge extra for checked baggage.

Q6: Are there direct flights to Iceland from my city?

A: Check the airline websites or use a flight comparison tool to see if there are direct flights from your departure city to Keflavík International Airport. Direct flights are more common from major cities in North America and Europe.

Q7: What documents do I need to fly to Iceland?

A: Generally, you’ll need a valid passport. Citizens of many countries in Europe, North America, and Australia do not require a visa for stays of up to 90 days. Always check the latest visa requirements based on your nationality before traveling.

Q8: What is the average flight time to Iceland?

A: Flight times vary depending on your departure location. From the East Coast of the United States, expect a flight time of around 5-6 hours. From London, the flight is approximately 3 hours.

Q9: Are there any airlines that offer premium economy or business class flights to Iceland?

A: Yes, airlines like Icelandair, Delta, United, British Airways, SAS, and Lufthansa offer premium economy and business class options. These provide more comfortable seating, enhanced amenities, and often priority boarding and baggage handling.

Q10: What should I pack for a trip to Iceland?

A: Iceland’s weather is notoriously unpredictable, so pack layers! Essential items include:

Waterproof and windproof outer layers: A sturdy jacket and pants are a must.
Warm layers: Fleece sweaters, thermal underwear, and warm socks.
Comfortable hiking shoes: If you plan to explore the outdoors.
Swimsuit: For the Blue Lagoon or other geothermal pools.
Hat, gloves, and scarf: Even in summer, the weather can be chilly.
Eye mask: Iceland has very long summer days, which can make it hard to sleep.

Q11: Is it cheaper to fly to Iceland during the off-season?

A: Yes, generally, flights to Iceland are significantly cheaper during the off-season (November-March). However, some attractions may have limited hours or be closed entirely during this time.

Q12: What are some tips for finding cheap flights to Iceland?

A: Here are some tips:

Be flexible with your travel dates: Mid-week flights are often cheaper than weekend flights.
Consider flying during the shoulder seasons: Spring (April-May) and fall (September-October) often offer a good balance of reasonable prices and decent weather.
Set up fare alerts: Use flight comparison websites to track prices and receive notifications when fares drop.
Check budget airlines: PLAY, Wizz Air, easyJet, Norwegian, and Transavia often offer the lowest fares.
Book in advance: Booking well in advance can help you secure the best deals.

By understanding the airlines that fly to Iceland and considering these factors, you can confidently plan your journey to this incredible destination. Enjoy your trip!