Icelandair

Icelandair stands as a unique aviation bridge across the Atlantic, leveraging its strategic geographical position to offer efficient and scenic connections between North America and Europe. Far more than just a means of transport, this airline embodies the spirit of Iceland, welcoming travelers with warm Nordic hospitality and a glimpse of its homeland's stunning landscapes before they even land. Established in 1937, the carrier has evolved from a small domestic operator into a major international player, celebrated for its innovative approach to trans-Atlantic travel and its commitment to connecting cultures.

Bridging Continents via Reykjavik

The core of Icelandair's operations is its hub in Reykjavik, which serves as the perfect midway point for flights between Europe and North America. By utilizing this central location, the airline offers shorter flight times on many routes compared to other carriers. Travelers can easily connect to major European capitals like London, Paris, and Copenhagen, or head west to key North American cities such as New York City, Boston, and Seattle. This extensive network makes it a popular choice for both business and leisure travelers seeking efficient transit across the ocean.

The Icelandair Stopover

One of the airline's most celebrated features is the Icelandair Stopover program. This initiative allows passengers flying across the Atlantic to stop in Iceland for up to seven days at no additional airfare. It transforms a standard layover into an exciting opportunity to explore geysers, waterfalls, and glaciers. This value-added service has won numerous accolades and has been instrumental in boosting Iceland's tourism, giving travelers a chance to experience two destinations in a single trip.

Fleet and Onboard Experience

Icelandair operates a modern and efficient fleet primarily composed of Boeing aircraft, including the versatile Boeing 757, 767, and the eco-efficient 737 MAX series. The onboard experience is designed to reflect the Icelandic character, featuring gate-to-gate Wi-Fi access, comfortable seating, and an in-flight entertainment system filled with movies and music. Passengers can also enjoy a menu inspired by Nordic cuisine, ensuring a taste of the destination at 30,000 feet.

Commitment to Safety and Service

With decades of experience operating in the challenging weather conditions of the North Atlantic, Icelandair maintains an impeccable safety record and high operational standards. The airline prides itself on punctuality and reliability, supported by highly trained pilots and cabin crew. Their mission is to deliver smooth and enjoyable journeys, treating every passenger as a guest and ensuring that the spirit of exploration is at the heart of every flight.

Travelers in the United Arab Emirates can access Icelandair's services through their dedicated General Sales Agent (GSA) in Dubai. While the airline does not currently operate direct flights to the region, this local representation ensures that passengers can easily manage reservations, handle ticketing inquiries, and receive assistance with their travel plans to Reykjavik and beyond.

Official Website

For the most up-to-date flight schedules, online bookings, and self-service options, visit the official global website:

• Official Website: www.icelandair.com

Contact Information

For assistance within the UAE, it is recommended to contact the local General Sales Agent. For urgent matters outside of local business hours, the international headquarters in Iceland can be reached 24/7.

• Local Customer Service (UAE): +971 4 397 6161 (Managed by Sharaf Travel)
• International Support (24/7): +354 50 50 100
• Ticket Booking: +971 4 397 6161
• Mobile App: Icelandair (Available on iOS and Android)

Social Media

Stay connected with the latest news, offers, and travel inspiration through their official social media channels:

• Facebook: facebook.com/Icelandair
• X (Twitter): twitter.com/Icelandair
• Instagram: instagram.com/icelandair

Local Office in United Arab Emirates

Icelandair is represented locally by Sharaf Travel LLC. You can visit their office for in-person assistance with bookings and inquiries.

• Address: Sharaf Travel LLC, Al Sharaf Tower, Khalid Bin Al Waleed Road, Bur Dubai, Dubai, United Arab Emirates.
• Postal Address: P.O. Box 21593, Dubai, UAE.

Emergency & 24/7 Support

If you require immediate assistance regarding flight disruptions or urgent changes outside of UAE office hours (typically 09:00 – 18:00 local time), please contact the main service center in Iceland.

• 24/7 International Line: +354 50 50 100

Planning your luggage is an essential part of preparing for any trip. Icelandair provides clear and structured baggage policies designed to accommodate various travel needs, whether you are heading on a short business trip or a long-haul adventure through Reykjavik. Understanding these allowances beforehand ensures a seamless check-in experience and helps you avoid unexpected costs at the airport.

Carry-on Baggage Allowance

Icelandair allows passengers to bring essential items into the cabin, with limits based on the class of service. Ensuring your hand luggage fits the dimensions is crucial for a smooth boarding process.

• Economy Light, Standard, and Flex: Passengers are permitted one carry-on bag with a maximum weight of 10 kg (22 lbs). In addition, one small personal item such as a handbag, laptop bag, or small backpack is allowed, which must fit under the seat in front of you.
• Saga Premium and Saga Premium Flex: Travelers in premium cabins enjoy a more generous allowance of two carry-on bags, each up to 10 kg (22 lbs), plus one small personal item.

The maximum dimensions for a carry-on bag are generally 55 x 40 x 20 cm (approx. 21.6 x 15.7 x 7.8 inches), including handles and wheels.

Checked Baggage Limits

Your checked baggage allowance depends entirely on the fare type you have purchased. It is highly recommended to check your ticket details before packing, especially for trans-Atlantic flights connecting cities like Seattle or London.

• Economy Light: This fare typically does not include any checked baggage allowance. Bags must be purchased separately.
• Economy Standard and Flex: Includes one checked bag weighing up to 23 kg (50 lbs).
• Saga Premium and Saga Premium Flex: Includes two checked bags, each weighing up to 32 kg (70 lbs).

The total size (length + width + height) of any checked bag should not exceed 158 cm (62 inches). Bags exceeding these limits will be subject to oversize or overweight fees.

Excess Baggage Fees

If you need to bring more than your ticket allows, you can purchase extra baggage allowance. It is almost always more cost-effective to pay for extra bags online prior to your flight rather than at the airport check-in counter. Heavy bags (between 23 kg and 32 kg) and oversized bags will incur additional handling fees. Please note that for safety reasons, no single bag may weigh more than 32 kg (70 lbs).

Special Items: Sports Equipment and Musical Instruments

Icelandair is accustomed to travelers carrying specialized gear, from skis and golf clubs to guitars and cellos.

• Sports Equipment: items such as skis, snowboards, bicycles, and golf bags can be checked in. If they fit within the standard baggage allowance weight, they may sometimes replace a regular bag, though special handling fees often apply for larger equipment. It is best to pre-book these items.
• Musical Instruments: Small instruments can be carried on board if they fit in the overhead compartment or under the seat. Larger instruments must be checked as special baggage in a hard case, or an extra seat can be purchased to keep them in the cabin.

Restricted and Prohibited Items

Safety is the top priority. Passengers must adhere to international regulations regarding dangerous goods. Explosives, compressed gases, flammable liquids, and sharp objects are strictly prohibited in the cabin. Lithium batteries and power banks must be packed in your carry-on luggage and are forbidden in checked bags. Liquids in carry-on bags must follow the standard 100ml rule and fit into a single, transparent, resealable plastic bag.

Tips for Packing Efficiently

To make your journey to destinations like Paris or New York City as comfortable as possible, consider these packing tips. Weigh your luggage at home to avoid stress at the airport. Place heavy items at the bottom of your suitcase near the wheels to keep it stable. Always attach a durable luggage tag with your name and phone number, and place a copy of your contact details inside the bag as a backup. If you are connecting through Iceland, ensure your warm layers are easily accessible in your carry-on for your stopover.

Traveling with Pets

Icelandair understands that pets are part of the family and offers options to transport them safely between Europe and North America. While the airline generally welcomes cats and dogs, it is important to note that strict regulations apply, particularly regarding transit through Reykjavik due to Iceland's stringent isolation and biosecurity laws. Whether you are relocating or taking a long holiday, careful planning is essential to ensure a smooth journey for your four-legged companions.

Transport Options

Depending on the size of your animal and your final destination, there are three primary ways to transport your pet. Please note that pets are not allowed in the cabin on flights to the United Kingdom, and specific rules apply for transit in Iceland.

In Cabin (Carry-on)

Small cats and dogs can travel with you in the cabin on most flights, provided they remain in their carrier for the duration of the journey.

• Carrier Dimensions: The maximum dimensions for the pet carrier are 40 x 30 x 20 cm (approximately 15.7 x 11.8 x 7.8 inches).
• Weight Limits: The combined weight of the pet and the carrier must not exceed 8 kg (17 lbs).
• Allowed Pets: Only dogs and cats are permitted in the cabin.
• Requirements: The carrier must be leak-proof, well-ventilated, and soft-sided carriers are recommended to fit under the seat.
• Limit: There is a restricted number of pets allowed per flight, so early booking is mandatory.

In Cargo Hold (Checked Baggage)

Animals that exceed the cabin weight or size limits travel in the temperature-controlled cargo hold. This section is pressurized and lit to ensure the animal's comfort.

• Container Requirements: You must provide an IATA-compliant hard plastic crate with adequate ventilation and secure locking mechanisms. Wire cages are not permitted.
• Weight and Size: The crate must be spacious enough for the animal to stand, turn around, and lie down naturally. The maximum combined weight is typically up to 45 kg (varies by route).
• Documentation: A special liability form and animal checklist are usually required at check-in.
• Comfort: The bottom of the crate must be lined with absorbent material.

As Cargo (Icelandair Cargo)

For very large animals, unaccompanied pets, or flights to countries with strict entry protocols (such as the UK), animals must be transported as manifest cargo.

• When Required: Mandatory for animals arriving in the UK or for pets weighing more than the checked baggage limit.
• Procedure: These bookings are handled through the airline's cargo department or a specialized pet shipper.
• Transit Rules: If your pet is traveling as cargo and has a layover in Iceland, they may be transported to a specialized animal reception center, as they are not allowed to clear customs without a permit.

Required Documentation

Travelers are responsible for ensuring they have all necessary government documents for the country of departure, transit, and arrival. Missing paperwork can result in travel denial.

• Veterinary Passport: A current EU pet passport or equivalent official document.
• Health Certificate: A veterinary certificate of health issued within a specific timeframe before travel (usually 10 days).
• Vaccinations: Proof of valid rabies vaccination is almost always required. Other vaccinations may be necessary depending on the destination (e.g., London or Vancouver).
• Microchip: Animals must be microchipped for identification.
• Transit Permit: Special permits may be required even for transit stops in certain jurisdictions.

Service Costs

Fees for pet travel are charged per leg of the journey and are subject to change. It is advisable to pay these fees at the time of booking to secure space.

• In-cabin fee: Approximately EUR 60 – 100 / USD 70 – 115 per flight leg.
• Cargo hold fee: Approximately EUR 120 – 190 / USD 140 – 220 per flight leg, depending on crate size.
• Cargo rates: Pricing for manifest cargo varies significantly by weight and volume; quotes must be obtained directly from the cargo department.

Preparation Tips

To reduce stress for your animal, preparation should start well before the flight date.

• Crate Acclimatization: Let your pet spend time in their travel carrier weeks before the flight to make it a safe space.
• Hydration: Attach a water funnel or empty dish to the crate door that can be filled from the outside.
• Feeding: Avoid giving a heavy meal right before the flight to prevent nausea; a light meal 4 hours prior is often recommended.
• Labels: Clearly mark the crate with "LIVE ANIMAL," your name, flight number, and contact phone number.

Restrictions

For the safety of the animals, Icelandair enforces specific restrictions.

• Prohibited Breeds: Snub-nosed (brachycephalic) dogs and cats (e.g., Bulldogs, Pugs, Persian cats) are often restricted or prohibited in the cargo hold due to respiratory risks.
• Temperature Embargoes: Transport may be denied if extreme temperatures at the departure or arrival airport pose a health risk.
• Service Animals: Recognized service dogs travel free of charge in the cabin but require pre-notification and specific documentation.
• Sedation: It is generally not recommended to sedate animals as it can affect their breathing and balance during the flight.

Important Note: Rules regarding pet travel, especially international entry requirements, change frequently. Always contact Icelandair customer service and the relevant embassy of your destination country to verify the latest regulations before you travel.

Icelandair Loyalty Program

The Icelandair Saga Club is the official frequent flyer program designed to reward travelers who choose Icelandair for their journeys across the Atlantic. Whether you are flying for business or leisure, this program allows members to earn points on flights and services, turning everyday travel into future adventures. It is free to join and offers a straightforward way to accumulate value, enhancing the travel experience with exclusive privileges as you move up the ranks.

Membership Tiers

Saga Club consists of three membership levels, each offering increasing benefits. Members advance through the tiers by earning Tier Credits within a 12-month period.

• Saga Blue: The entry-level tier where all members start. Benefits include earning Saga Points on flights and the ability to use points for payments.
• Saga Silver: Achieved after earning a specific number of Tier Credits. Perks include priority check-in, lounge access at Reykjavik (Keflavik Airport), and an extra checked bag.
• Saga Gold: The top tier for the most frequent travelers. Benefits include comprehensive lounge access, priority boarding, Fast Track security, complimentary Wi-Fi on board, and the highest baggage allowance.

Earning Saga Points

Members can accrue Saga Points through a variety of activities, extending well beyond just sitting in a plane seat.

• Flights: Earn points on all scheduled Icelandair flights, as well as flights with partner airlines.
• Onboard Purchases: Points can be earned when buying refreshments or duty-free items during your flight.
• Travel Partners: Accumulate points when booking hotels, rental cars, and tours through Saga Club partners.
• Everyday Activities: Members can earn points through co-branded credit cards (primarily available in Iceland) and by shopping with affiliated retailers.

Redeeming Saga Points

Saga Points are flexible and can be used to cover various travel expenses or to treat yourself to upgrades.

• Award Flights: Use points to pay for the full airfare or combine points and cash to book flights to destinations like Boston or Copenhagen.
• Upgrades: Redeem points to upgrade your seat from Economy to Saga Premium for a more comfortable journey.
• Onboard Services: Use points to purchase food, beverages, and Wi-Fi access while in the air.
• Taxes and Fees: Unlike many other programs, Saga Points can often be used to pay for airport taxes and fuel surcharges.

Alliance and Airline Partners

Icelandair is not a member of the major global airline alliances (such as Star Alliance, SkyTeam, or oneworld). However, it has established strong independent partnerships and codeshare agreements to extend its reach.

• Key Partners: Members can earn and redeem points on select flights with partner airlines such as Alaska Airlines and JetBlue, facilitating connections across North America.
• Regional Connections: Partnerships with carriers like SAS and Finnair ensure smooth connectivity throughout the Nordic region.

How to Join

Joining the Icelandair Saga Club is simple and can be done entirely online. Travelers can register via the official Icelandair website or mobile app before their flight to strictly ensure they start earning points immediately. Once registered, you will receive a digital membership card directly to your smartphone.

Services and Comfort on Board

Flying with Icelandair is designed to be an extension of the Icelandic holiday experience. The cabin atmosphere is inspired by the natural colors and lights of Iceland, creating a calming environment from the moment you step on board. Whether you are taking a short hop to Europe or a longer journey to North America, the airline offers distinct travel classes and amenities tailored to varied needs and budgets.

Cabin Classes

Icelandair primarily offers two main cabins: Economy and Saga Premium. While there is no First Class cabin, Saga Premium serves as the airline's business class product, offering high levels of comfort and service.

• Economy Class: Designed for value and comfort, the Economy cabin features seats with a standard pitch of approximately 32 inches (81 cm), offering generous legroom compared to many competitors. Passengers can choose from different fare types, such as Economy Light (travel light), Economy Standard (includes checked bags), and Economy Flex. All seats are equipped with a personal in-flight entertainment system. Soft drinks, coffee, and tea are complimentary throughout the flight.
• Saga Premium: This is Icelandair’s top-tier class, ideal for business travelers or those seeking extra luxury on their way to destinations like Boston or London. The cabin features spacious recliner seats with a 40-inch (101 cm) pitch arranged in a 2-2 configuration on most aircraft, ensuring no middle seats. Passengers enjoy priority check-in, access to business lounges, complimentary Wi-Fi (for two devices), and noise-cancelling headphones during the flight.

In-Flight Entertainment and Connectivity

One of the highlights of flying with Icelandair is the comprehensive in-flight entertainment system available at every seat. High-definition touchscreens provide access to a wide selection of movies, TV shows, and documentaries about Iceland, perfect for planning your trip while en route to Reykjavik.

The system also features a specialized "For the Kids" section to keep younger travelers engaged. Additionally, most of the fleet is equipped with high-speed gate-to-gate Wi-Fi, allowing you to stay connected from takeoff to landing. USB power outlets are available at every seat to keep devices charged.

Dining on Board

The culinary experience varies by cabin but always focuses on fresh, Nordic-inspired ingredients.

• Economy: Passengers can purchase items from the "Icelandair Kitchen" menu, which offers a variety of light meals, sandwiches, and snacks. While meals are not included in the ticket price (except for soft drinks), pre-ordering options are available online before departure.
• Saga Premium: Travelers in the premium cabin enjoy complimentary meal service. The menu typically includes a choice of hot main courses, fresh appetizers, and dessert, accompanied by a selection of wines, beer, and spirits.
• Children's Meals: A standout feature is that children aged 2 to 11 traveling in Economy receive a complimentary warm meal and a juice box on all international flights.

Special Services

Icelandair is committed to making travel accessible and comfortable for everyone.

• Traveling with Children: Apart from free meals, young passengers receive an activity pack to keep them entertained. The airline also offers an Unaccompanied Minor service for children traveling alone, ensuring they are supervised from check-in until they are met by their guardian at the destination.
• Special Assistance: Passengers with reduced mobility or other disabilities can request wheelchair assistance and specific seating arrangements. It is recommended to request these services at least 48 hours in advance to ensure a smooth journey connecting through hubs like Seattle or European cities.
• Expectant Mothers: Pregnant travelers are welcome aboard up to their 36th week of pregnancy (for flights under 4 hours) or 34 weeks for longer flights, provided they have a medical certificate if they are in the final stages of eligibility.

Icelandair operates a robust network centered around its strategic hub in Reykjavik, facilitating smooth travel between major cities in Europe and North America. In addition to its extensive international connections, the airline provides vital domestic services, ensuring comprehensive access to the stunning regions of Iceland and key commercial centers abroad.

To secure the best fares with Icelandair, it is generally recommended to book your tickets at least 2 to 3 months in advance, especially if you plan to travel during the peak summer season or major holidays. Travelers looking for deals should keep an eye out for seasonal promotions, often released during shoulder seasons like spring and autumn, which can offer significant savings for flights connecting North America and Europe.

A unique advantage of flying with this carrier is the renowned Stopover program. This allows passengers flying across the Atlantic to stop in Reykjavik for up to seven nights at no additional airfare. This is an excellent way to add a second destination to your trip without increasing your travel budget, perfect for exploring the natural wonders of Iceland before continuing to cities like London or New York City.

Streamline your airport experience by utilizing the online check-in service, which typically opens 24 hours before your scheduled departure. You can complete this process via the airline's website or mobile app. If you are traveling with carry-on luggage only, this allows you to head straight to security upon arrival at the airport, saving valuable time.

When it comes to seat selection, consider booking early to secure a window seat. Since many routes fly over stunning landscapes like Greenland or the Arctic, the views can be breathtaking. For extra comfort, you can look for "More Legroom" seats near the front of the economy cabin or emergency exit rows, which are often available for a small additional fee during the booking process.

Downloading the Icelandair mobile app is highly recommended for a smooth journey. The app serves as your digital travel assistant, allowing you to store mobile boarding passes, track baggage, and receive real-time flight updates. Additionally, always ensure you have comprehensive travel insurance that covers flight cancellations or delays, providing peace of mind throughout your journey.

History of Icelandair

The story of Icelandair is inextricably linked to the history of aviation in Iceland itself. It began in 1937 with the founding of Flugfélag Akureyrar on the northern coast of Iceland. Initially operating a single floatplane, the company moved its headquarters to the capital in 1940, rebranding as Flugfélag Íslands (Iceland Airways). Parallel to this, another carrier named Loftleiðir (Icelandic Airlines) was established in 1944 by three young Icelandic pilots. These two companies competed domestically but also laid the groundwork for international connectivity, eventually becoming the pillars upon which the modern airline was built.

Pioneering Trans-Atlantic Travel

In the post-war era, both airlines began looking beyond Iceland's shores. Flugfélag Íslands focused on routes to Europe, launching services to London and Copenhagen. Meanwhile, Loftleiðir carved out a unique niche in the 1950s and 60s by offering low-cost flights between North America and Europe via Iceland. Because Iceland was not a member of IATA at the time, Loftleiðir was not bound by the association's strict price controls. This allowed them to offer significantly cheaper fares, earning the airline the affectionate nickname "The Hippie Airline" as it became the preferred carrier for young travelers and students backpacking across the Atlantic.

The Merger and Birth of Icelandair

The energy crisis of the 1970s and intensifying economic pressures made it difficult for two Icelandic airlines to compete in such a small market. In 1973, the companies merged under a new holding company, Flugleiðir. While they initially maintained separate brand identities, they fully integrated their operations in 1979, adopting the unified international trade name Icelandair. This merger consolidated resources and streamlined the network, solidifying the hub-and-spoke model at Keflavik Airport that remains central to the airline's strategy today.

Fleet Evolution: The Boeing Era

Icelandair's fleet has undergone significant transformation over the decades. The early years saw the use of Douglas DC-3s, DC-4s, and eventually DC-8 jets, which were instrumental in the long-haul expansion. However, a major turning point came in the late 1980s and early 1990s with the introduction of the Boeing 757. This aircraft proved perfectly suited for Iceland's geographical position, offering the range to reach both Seattle and European capitals while being efficient enough for thinner routes. The 757 became the backbone of the fleet for decades, allowing the airline to expand its destination network aggressively.

Modern Expansion and Innovation

In recent years, the airline has continued to modernize, phasing in the Boeing 767 for high-demand routes and, more recently, the Boeing 737 MAX series. These newer aircraft offer greater fuel efficiency and improved passenger comfort, aligning with the company's growing focus on sustainability. Today, Icelandair continues to innovate, not only through its fleet but also by refining the passenger experience, ensuring that the legacy of bridging continents continues well into the 21st century.