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Akureyri Airport

About the Airport

Akureyri Airport. Source: Kupi.com Binoculars

Akureyri Airport is not merely a transport hub, but a true aerial gateway to the heart of North Iceland, situated amidst majestic mountains. Landing here resembles a breathtaking excursion: the aircraft descends along the picturesque Eyjafjörður, revealing views to passengers that take their breath away. This cosy and compact airport allows you to begin your acquaintance with the Arctic nature immediately after exiting the terminal, bypassing the hustle and bustle of capital city hubs.

IATA Code AEY
ICAO Code BIAR
City Akureyri
Distance to Centre 3 km
Status International
Annual Passengers Over 169,000 (2024 data)
Schedule

Features and Advantages of the Airport:

The main feature of the airport is its unique location at the end of Iceland's longest fjord. The approach for landing here is considered one of the most beautiful in the world: passengers can observe snow-capped peaks and the sea surface from a bird's-eye view. Thanks to its compactness, the airport is distinguished by high service speed — the journey from the aircraft steps to the city exit takes mere minutes, which is particularly appreciated by travellers after a flight.

Another important advantage is its proximity to attractions. The airport is located just a 5-minute drive from the city centre, making it an ideal starting point for journeys along the "Diamond Circle" and to the Goðafoss waterfall. Furthermore, right next to the terminal is the Icelandic Aviation Museum, which is worth visiting if you have free time before your departure.

Contact Information

If you need to contact the administration of Akureyri Airport, please use the following contact information. This will help you receive answers regarding flight schedules, available services, or in the event of unforeseen situations.

  • Official Website: Up-to-date information on flights, services, and airport regulations can always be found on the official website of the operator Isavia: www.isavia.is/en/akureyri-airport.
  • Information Desk Phone: For immediate information, you can call the number: +354 424 4000.
  • Airport Address: The airport is located at: Útgerðarbraut, 600 Akureyri, Iceland.
  • Email: For general enquiries, you can use the email address of the Iceland airport operator: isavia@isavia.is.
  • Social Media: Follow news and updates on the official Isavia Facebook page: facebook.com/isavia.is.
  • Lost Luggage Information: If your luggage has been lost or damaged, you should first contact your airline's baggage tracing service. For items left within the terminal building, please contact the airport information desk.
  • Passenger Support Contacts: For general passenger support, use the main information desk phone number or email address listed above.

How to Get to the Airport

Getting to Akureyri Airport (AEY) from the city centre is quite simple, as it is located just 3 kilometres south of it. A car journey usually takes no more than 5-10 minutes, making it one of the most accessible regional airports in Iceland. The main ways to reach the terminal are by taxi, rental car, or, in some cases, the city bus.

Taxis and Transfers are the fastest and most convenient way to reach the airport. Taxi ranks are easy to find in the city of Akureyri, and cars can also be ordered by phone or via an app. Given the short distance, the trip will be quick, though, as everywhere in Iceland, not the cheapest. This is an excellent option if you are travelling with luggage or value comfort. Some hotels also offer transfer services for their guests.

Public Transport in the form of direct shuttles to the airport is not as developed here as in major capitals. However, it is worth checking the schedule of local city buses (Strætó), as some routes may pass within walking distance of the airport. This option will be the most budget-friendly but requires planning and checking the current timetable.

Car Rental and Parking is the ideal choice for those planning to explore the northern part of Iceland independently. Many major rental companies have offices both at the airport itself and in the city. You can pick up a car immediately upon arrival or return it before departure. Akureyri Airport has convenient parking suitable for both short-term and long-term stays, which is convenient if you have arrived in your own or rented transport.

Terminals and Map

Akureyri Airport (AEY) is a compact and modern regional airport distinguished by a simple and clear structure. Travellers need not worry about complex navigation, as there is only one passenger terminal serving both domestic and international flights. This makes it a convenient gateway for exploring the northern part of Iceland.

The terminal layout is extremely logical. All key zones — check-in counters, security screening, boarding gates, and the baggage claim area — are located in one small building within walking distance of each other. After entering the terminal, you will immediately see the check-in counters. After passing security control, you will enter a cosy departure lounge with boarding gates. Departure and arrival zones are clearly separated but located nearby, ensuring rapid movement upon arrival.

One of the main advantages of Akureyri Airport is the speed of completing all procedures. Due to the low passenger flow, flight check-in and security screening usually take no more than 15-20 minutes. Nevertheless, for international flights, it is recommended to arrive 2 hours before departure, and for domestic flights — 1-1.5 hours, to check in luggage and complete all formalities without rushing.

Navigation Recommendations here are simple: it is practically impossible to get lost in the airport. Signs are clear and highly visible, and staff are always ready to assist. Since transfer between terminals is not required, you can calmly enjoy waiting for your flight in the café or the small duty-free shop. The compactness of AEY airport ensures a comfortable and peaceful start or end to your journey through the north of the country.

Airport History

The history of Akureyri Airport (AEY) is closely linked to the development of aviation in Iceland and the strategic importance of the island in the 20th century. Although the first flights in this region began as early as the 1920s, the modern airport was built by British troops during the Second World War. This was one of the key infrastructure projects of that period, aimed at ensuring transport accessibility for the northern part of the country.

After the war, the facility was handed over to civilian authorities, and its official opening for commercial flights took place in 1955. From that moment, the airport became a vital transport hub connecting North Iceland with Reykjavík and other regions. In the 1960s, the runway was significantly lengthened and paved, allowing for the reception of larger aircraft and an increase in passenger flow.

Significant modernization of the airport occurred at the turn of the century. In 2001, a new, more modern and spacious terminal was opened, replacing the old building and significantly increasing the level of comfort for passengers. Parallel work was carried out to improve navigation equipment, which is especially important in Iceland's complex weather conditions. These updates allowed Akureyri Airport to receive not only domestic but also international charter and seasonal flights.

An interesting fact: Akureyri Airport is one of the country's four international airports and serves as the main alternate airfield for flights heading to the country's main airport, Keflavík. Thanks to its location deep within the picturesque Eyjafjörður, landing in Akureyri becomes a thrilling adventure for many tourists in itself, revealing stunning views of mountains and water.

Services and Amenities

Akureyri Airport (AEY) is a modern, albeit small, regional airport that serves as a gateway to the northern part of Iceland. Despite its compact size, it offers passengers all key services for a comfortable start or end to their journey.

Inside the terminal building, there is a café where you can have coffee, snack on sandwiches, or order light meals while waiting for your flight. There is also a small shop offering souvenirs, Icelandic goods, and travel essentials. There are no separate business or VIP lounges at the airport; however, the main waiting hall is sufficiently spacious and comfortable.

Free Wi-Fi is available to passengers throughout the terminal. You will also easily find sockets for charging your gadgets. If you need to withdraw cash, an ATM is installed at the airport. There are no specialised currency exchange bureaus, so it is better to arrange currency exchange in advance.

The airport is fully adapted for passengers with reduced mobility: there are ramps and accessible toilets, and staff are always ready to provide necessary assistance during check-in and boarding. For travellers with small children, changing tables are equipped in the restrooms. There is no specialised medical cabinet in the terminal, but staff are trained to provide first aid.

There are no hotels directly on the airport territory, but many accommodation options are located in the city of Akureyri itself, which can be reached in just a few minutes by car. There, in the city's hotels and business centres, conference rooms can be rented, as such services are not provided at the airport.

Where to Eat

Akureyri Airport (AEY) is a compact and modern regional aviation hub, so all catering establishments here are concentrated in a single terminal. You will not find a huge food court here as in metropolises, but you will be able to comfortably have a snack or drink coffee while waiting for your flight.

The main place for passengers is the café-bistro, located in the public area of the terminal (landside), before passing security control. This is a convenient place where you can have a full lunch or take something with you. The assortment includes hot and cold drinks, fresh pastries, sandwiches, salads, and a few simple hot dishes. After passing screening (airside), the selection is usually more limited, so it is recommended to satisfy your hunger in the main zone.

Even at the airport, you can find notes of Icelandic cuisine. Pay attention to traditional skyr — a thick yoghurt that is a healthy and tasty snack. Local pastries are also often sold in the café. This is a wonderful opportunity to enjoy the authentic taste of Iceland before departure.

The café's opening hours depend directly on the flight schedule: it is open to serve passengers and closes after the departure of the last aircraft. Prices at the airport correspond to the average level for the country, which may seem high for many tourists. Regarding dietary restrictions, vegetarian sandwiches or salads can usually be found. However, the selection of vegan, gluten-free, or Halal dishes is extremely small, so travellers with strict dietary requirements are better off bringing food with them.

Overall, Akureyri Airport offers everything necessary for a quick and convenient snack. If you have time and wish to have a full gastronomic experience, it is better to visit one of the numerous cafés or restaurants in the city itself before heading to the airport.

Travel Tips

Akureyri Airport is your gateway to the picturesque northern region of Iceland. Despite its modest size, it is an important transport hub. To ensure your journey through it goes as smoothly as possible, make use of our tips.

Arrival time at the airport. We recommend arriving at the airport at least 1.5-2 hours before departure for domestic destinations (for example, to Reykjavík) and 2-3 hours before international charter flights. Although the airport is small, queues can occur during the high tourist season.

Check-in and Security Control. Check-in and screening procedures at Akureyri Airport usually proceed quickly. To speed up the process, check in for your flight online and prepare all liquids and electronic devices for screening in advance.

Seat selection on the plane. When flying between Akureyri and Reykjavík, try to occupy a window seat. You will be treated to breathtaking views of unique volcanic landscapes, glaciers, and fjords of Iceland, which will be an excellent start or end to your adventure.

Hand Luggage. Remember standard international rules: liquids in containers of no more than 100 ml each must be packed in a single transparent resealable bag. The total volume must not exceed 1 litre. Always check hand luggage and baggage allowances on your airline's website, as they may differ.

Passengers with connections. Transit procedures at this airport are generally simple. If you have a single ticket, your luggage will most likely be transferred automatically. If you are flying with different airlines, allow extra time for collecting and re-checking luggage.

Customs Control. For flights within the Schengen area, there is no passport control. If you are arriving from a country outside Schengen, you will have to undergo standard customs procedures. Familiarise yourself in advance with the regulations for importing restricted items, tobacco products, and food into Iceland to avoid misunderstandings.

Saving time and money. Check in for your flight online to save time. Booking flight tickets and transfers to the city in advance will help save money. There is a small café at the airport, but if you are on a limited budget, it is better to bring snacks permitted by the regulations with you.

In case of flight delay. In the event of a flight delay, remain calm. Monitor updates on information screens and the airline's website. There is a limited amount of entertainment at the airport, so it is worth having a book, a charged power bank, or downloaded films with you. In the case of a long delay, contact an airline representative to enquire about your rights to receive meals or accommodation.

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