Soaring to Iceland: A Guide to the Airlines That Take You There

Iceland, the land of fire and ice, has exploded in popularity as a travel destination. Its breathtaking landscapes, from the Northern Lights dancing across the sky to the geothermal wonders of the Blue Lagoon, beckon adventurers from all corners of the globe. But before you can marvel at cascading waterfalls or hike across volcanic terrain, you need to get there. So, which airlines can transport you to this Nordic paradise?

The primary airlines that fly to Iceland include Icelandair, the national carrier, and PLAY, a low-cost Icelandic airline. Numerous other international airlines offer seasonal or year-round flights to Keflavík International Airport (KEF), Iceland’s main airport. These include Delta Air Lines, United Airlines, British Airways, SAS – Scandinavian Airlines, easyJet, Wizz Air, Lufthansa, Air Canada, Air France, KLM, Norwegian Air Shuttle, and Vueling. The specific airlines and routes available depend on your departure location and the time of year.

Navigating the Icelandic Airways: A Deeper Dive

The airline landscape serving Iceland is constantly evolving, reflecting the changing demands of travelers and the dynamic nature of the aviation industry. While Icelandair and PLAY remain consistent players, other airlines adjust their routes and schedules based on seasonal demand and economic factors. Let’s examine some of the key players in more detail:

Icelandair: The Flag Carrier

Icelandair is synonymous with travel to Iceland. This airline has a long history and a deep connection to the nation. They offer a wide range of routes connecting North America and Europe with Iceland. What sets Icelandair apart is its “Iceland Stopover” program. This allows passengers traveling between the continents to enjoy a stopover in Iceland at no additional airfare cost, enabling them to explore the country for a few days before continuing their journey. This program has been a significant contributor to Iceland’s tourism boom. Icelandair also prides itself on its Icelandic hospitality and in-flight experience, providing a taste of the country before you even land.

PLAY: The Low-Cost Option

For budget-conscious travelers, PLAY offers a compelling alternative. As a low-cost carrier, PLAY focuses on providing affordable fares between Europe and North America, with Iceland as its hub. While you’ll pay extra for amenities like checked baggage, meals, and seat selection, PLAY can be an excellent option if you’re prioritizing cost. It’s crucial to remember that low-cost airlines often operate on a no-frills basis, so be sure to factor in the cost of any extras you might need when comparing fares. PLAY’s emergence has increased competition in the Icelandic airline market, benefiting travelers with more affordable options.

Major International Airlines

Several major international airlines also serve Iceland, primarily during peak tourist season. Delta Air Lines and United Airlines offer direct flights from various cities in the United States. British Airways connects London with Keflavík, while SAS – Scandinavian Airlines provides connections from Scandinavia. Lufthansa, Air France, and KLM offer routes from major European hubs, allowing travelers to connect to Iceland from almost anywhere in the world. Furthermore, low-cost giants like easyJet, Wizz Air, Vueling, and Norwegian Air Shuttle offer a selection of routes to and from destinations in Europe. Keep in mind that the availability of these flights can vary significantly depending on the time of year, with more options available during the summer months.

Seasonal Flights: Planning Ahead

The availability of flights to Iceland is strongly influenced by seasonality. During the summer months (June-August), when the weather is mild and the days are long, demand for flights soars. This is when you’ll see the most airlines operating routes to Keflavík. In contrast, during the winter months, some airlines reduce or suspend their service due to lower demand and potentially challenging weather conditions. It’s, therefore, essential to plan your trip well in advance, particularly if you’re traveling during the off-season. Booking your flights early can often secure better fares and ensure that you have a wider range of options to choose from. Be aware that flight schedules can change, so it’s always a good idea to double-check your booking closer to your departure date.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

Here are some frequently asked questions regarding airlines that fly to Iceland:

1. What is the main airport in Iceland?

The main airport in Iceland is Keflavík International Airport (KEF), located approximately 50 kilometers (31 miles) southwest of Reykjavík.

2. How far in advance should I book my flights to Iceland?

It’s generally recommended to book your flights to Iceland at least 2-3 months in advance, especially if you’re traveling during the peak summer season. Booking earlier can often secure better fares and ensure availability.

3. Are there any direct flights to Iceland from my city?

Whether there are direct flights depends on your city of origin. Icelandair offers direct flights from numerous cities in North America and Europe. Other airlines, such as Delta, United, and British Airways, may offer direct flights from specific hubs. Use flight search engines to check availability.

4. What is the cheapest time of year to fly to Iceland?

The cheapest time to fly to Iceland is typically during the shoulder seasons (April-May and September-October) or the winter months (November-March), excluding the Christmas and New Year holidays.

5. Are there any budget airlines that fly to Iceland?

Yes, PLAY is an Icelandic low-cost airline. Other budget airlines that fly to Iceland include easyJet, Wizz Air, and Norwegian Air Shuttle.

6. Do Icelandair flights include checked baggage?

The inclusion of checked baggage on Icelandair flights depends on the fare type you purchase. Higher fare classes typically include one or more checked bags, while basic economy fares may require you to pay extra. Check the specific baggage allowance associated with your fare.

7. How long is the flight from New York to Iceland?

The flight time from New York (JFK) to Keflavík (KEF) is approximately 5-6 hours.

8. What is the “Iceland Stopover” program offered by Icelandair?

The “Iceland Stopover” program allows passengers flying between North America and Europe on Icelandair to stop over in Iceland for up to 7 days at no additional airfare cost. This enables you to explore Iceland before continuing your journey.

9. What is the baggage allowance on PLAY flights?

PLAY flights typically do not include checked baggage in the base fare. You’ll need to pay extra to add checked baggage to your booking. Check their website for current baggage fees.

10. Can I fly to Iceland from Canada?

Yes, Air Canada and Icelandair both offer flights to Iceland from various cities in Canada.

11. Are there any domestic flights within Iceland?

Yes, there are domestic flights within Iceland, primarily operated by Eagle Air (Ernir). These flights connect Reykjavík with smaller towns and regions around the country.

12. What should I do if my flight to Iceland is delayed or cancelled?

If your flight is delayed or cancelled, contact the airline immediately. They are responsible for providing you with information, assistance, and potentially compensation depending on the circumstances and applicable regulations (such as EU Regulation 261/2004). You may be entitled to meals, accommodation, and rebooking options.