What Airlines Fly to Reykjavik? Your Comprehensive Guide to Icelandic Air Travel

Planning a trip to Iceland? Excellent choice! The land of fire and ice awaits. But before you can marvel at the Northern Lights or soak in the Blue Lagoon, you need to get there. The primary gateway to Iceland is Keflavík International Airport (KEF), located near Reykjavik. So, which airlines will whisk you away to this Nordic paradise?

A plethora of airlines offer flights to Reykjavik, catering to a wide range of budgets and departure locations. Here’s a comprehensive list:

• Icelandair: The national carrier of Iceland, Icelandair is the behemoth, offering the most extensive network to and from Reykjavik. They connect Iceland to numerous cities in North America and Europe.
• PLAY: This low-cost carrier provides budget-friendly options, primarily focusing on routes between Europe and North America via Reykjavik.
• Delta Air Lines: A major US airline with seasonal service from select US cities, typically during the peak summer months.
• United Airlines: Another prominent US airline, also offering seasonal flights from various US hubs to Reykjavik.
• American Airlines: Expanding its transatlantic reach, American Airlines also provides seasonal service to Reykjavik from select US locations.
• British Airways: Connects Reykjavik to London Heathrow, offering connections to destinations worldwide.
• easyJet: A budget airline focusing on intra-European routes, providing cost-effective options from various European cities.
• Wizz Air: Another low-cost airline popular in Europe, connecting Reykjavik with several cities in Eastern and Central Europe.
• SAS – Scandinavian Airlines: Connecting Reykjavik to Scandinavian hubs like Copenhagen and Oslo, offering connections to other destinations.
• Air Canada: Provides seasonal flights from major Canadian cities like Toronto.
• Lufthansa: Connects Reykjavik to Frankfurt, a major European hub, providing access to their vast global network.
• KLM Royal Dutch Airlines: Offers flights from Amsterdam to Reykjavik, another key European hub.
• Norwegian Air Shuttle: Another budget-friendly option with routes between Reykjavik and select European cities.
• Vueling: A Spanish low-cost carrier connecting Reykjavik to several cities in Spain and other European locations.
• Transavia: Offering flights from various European cities, particularly in France and the Netherlands.
• Eurowings: Part of the Lufthansa Group, offering flights from several German cities.

This list is not exhaustive, and airlines may add or remove routes depending on the season and market demand. Always check directly with the airlines for the most up-to-date information on routes and schedules. It’s also important to consider that some flights may be seasonal, typically operating during the summer tourist season.

Understanding Flight Options to Reykjavik

The airline you choose will depend on several factors, including your departure location, budget, travel dates, and preferred level of service. Icelandair and the major US airlines (Delta, United, and American) often offer more amenities and comfort, while low-cost carriers like PLAY, easyJet, and Wizz Air provide significantly cheaper fares but may charge extra for baggage, seat selection, and meals.

Seasonal vs. Year-Round Flights

As mentioned earlier, many airlines operate seasonal routes to Reykjavik, primarily during the peak summer months (June-August). This is when Iceland experiences its warmest weather and longest daylight hours, making it the most popular time to visit. If you’re traveling outside of these months, your options may be more limited, and you might need to fly with Icelandair or airlines that operate year-round routes.

Choosing the Right Airline

Consider these factors when selecting your airline:

• Price: Compare fares across different airlines, including any additional fees for baggage or seat selection.
• Convenience: Look for airlines that offer direct flights from your departure city.
• Schedule: Consider flight times and layovers, especially if you have connecting flights.
• Baggage Allowance: Check the airline’s baggage policy to ensure it meets your needs.
• Amenities: Decide what amenities are important to you, such as in-flight entertainment, meals, and Wi-Fi.

FAQs about Flying to Reykjavik

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

1. What is the main airport in Reykjavik? The main airport serving Reykjavik is Keflavík International Airport (KEF). It’s located about 50 km (31 miles) southwest of Reykjavik.

2. Are there any airports in Reykjavik itself? Yes, there is Reykjavik Airport (RKV), but it primarily handles domestic flights and flights to Greenland. For international travel, Keflavík is the airport you’ll use.

3. When is the best time to book flights to Reykjavik? It’s generally recommended to book flights well in advance, especially if you’re traveling during the peak season. Booking several months ahead can often secure better prices.

4. Are there direct flights to Reykjavik from the US? Yes, Delta, United, and American Airlines, as well as Icelandair and PLAY, offer direct flights from various US cities to Reykjavik. The specific cities vary depending on the airline and season.

5. What are the cheapest months to fly to Reykjavik? Generally, the shoulder seasons (April-May and September-October) offer lower fares compared to the peak summer months. November through March (excluding the holiday season) can also be cost-effective.

6. How far is Keflavík Airport from Reykjavik city center? Keflavík Airport is approximately a 45-minute to 1-hour drive from Reykjavik city center.

7. What are the transportation options from Keflavík Airport to Reykjavik? Options include the Flybus (airport shuttle), taxis, and rental cars. The Flybus is a popular and affordable option, while taxis are more expensive.

8. Is it cheaper to fly to Iceland in the winter? Yes, flights to Iceland are typically cheaper in the winter months due to lower demand. However, be prepared for colder weather and shorter daylight hours.

9. Do I need a visa to visit Iceland? Visa requirements depend on your nationality. Citizens of many countries, including the US, Canada, and the EU, can enter Iceland without a visa for tourist purposes. Always check the latest visa requirements based on your specific citizenship.

10. What is the currency used in Iceland? The currency in Iceland is the Icelandic Króna (ISK). While credit and debit cards are widely accepted, it’s a good idea to have some cash on hand for smaller establishments or emergencies.

11. Are there any baggage restrictions on flights to Reykjavik? Baggage restrictions vary depending on the airline. Be sure to check the airline’s specific baggage policy before your flight to avoid any surprises at the airport. Consider that low-cost carriers often have stricter and more expensive baggage fees.

12. What is the best way to find cheap flights to Reykjavik? Utilize flight comparison websites like Google Flights, Skyscanner, and Kayak. Be flexible with your travel dates and consider flying during the shoulder seasons or off-peak times. Sign up for email alerts to receive notifications about flight deals. Also, keep an eye on low-cost carrier websites for promotional fares.

By carefully considering your options and planning ahead, you can find the perfect flight to Reykjavik and begin your unforgettable Icelandic adventure!