Isafjordur Airport

Isafjordur Airport (IFJ) is not merely a runway, but a true aerial gateway to the heart of the Westfjords of Iceland. Located on a narrow spit deep within the fjord, it is renowned for having one of the most spectacular and challenging landing approaches in the world. Pilots must execute a 180-degree turn in close proximity to the mountains, turning every flight into an unforgettable adventure. This small yet vital airport serves as a key transport artery connecting the remote and picturesque Isafjordur with the rest of the country.

The main feature of the airport is its unique location and demanding approach procedure, which is even included as a challenge in Microsoft Flight Simulator. Due to the complex terrain and unpredictable weather, flights may be delayed or cancelled, so travellers are advised to allocate extra time in their plans. Despite its modest size, the airport effectively fulfills its task, providing a reliable connection for locals and tourists wishing to explore the wild nature of the Westfjords.

The terminal offers basic amenities necessary for a comfortable wait for your flight. Its main advantage is undoubtedly its role as a fast and sole aerial bridge to this remote part of Iceland, especially during the winter months when ground transport can be difficult. Regular flights to Reykjavik and back are operated by Icelandair, which became the main operator following its merger with Air Iceland Connect in 2021.

For your convenience, we have compiled the main contact information for Isafjordur Airport (IFJ). We recommend verifying the data on official resources before your trip.

• Official Website: You can find all information regarding flights, services, and airport regulations on the official page managed by Isavia: www.isavia.is/isafjardarflugvollur.
• Information Desk Phone: For immediate enquiries, you can call the number: +354 456 4298.
• Airport Address: The airport is located at: Ísafjarðarflugvöllur, 400 Ísafjörður, Iceland.
• Email: For general questions, you can use the central email address of the Icelandic airport operator: isavia@isavia.is.
• Social Media: Isafjordur Airport does not have separate social media pages. For news and updates, please follow the official accounts of Isavia.
• Lost Luggage Information: Issues regarding lost or damaged luggage are handled by the airline you travelled with. Please contact your carrier directly.
• Passenger Support Contacts: For general questions related to airport operations, you can contact the phone number and email address listed above.

Getting to the airport of Isafjordur (IFJ) is straightforward, as it is located just a few kilometres from the city centre, on the opposite side of the fjord. Despite the compact size of the city and the airport, several convenient transfer options are available to travellers.

Taxi and Private Transfer — the most popular and reliable way to reach the airport. The journey from the centre of Isafjordur will take just 5-10 minutes. Several taxi services operate in the city, however, given the small size of the local fleet and flight schedules, it is strongly recommended to book a car in advance. This guarantees that you will arrive on time, especially if your departure is early in the morning or late in the evening. The cost of the trip will be fixed or metered, but generally, this is the most expensive option for such a short distance.

Car Rental — an ideal choice for those planning to explore the scenic Westfjords of Iceland. Many rental companies offer the option to pick up or drop off the vehicle directly at the airport. This allows you to start or end your journey with maximum comfort. It is also better to book a car well in advance, especially during the high tourist season (summer), to ensure availability.

Airport Parking. If you are arriving in your own or a rented car, you can leave it in the parking lot at the terminal. Since the airport is very small, the parking is located in the immediate vicinity of the building, and you won't have to walk far with luggage. Typically, parking here is free or very inexpensive, making it convenient for both short and long stays.

Public Transport and Walking. Specialized public transport, such as shuttle buses, does not run to the airport. Theoretically, one can walk; the distance by road is about 3 km. This can be a pleasant scenic walk in good weather for tourists with a light backpack, but with heavy luggage, this option would be inconvenient. Expect a walk of approximately 40-50 minutes.

Isafjordur Airport (IFJ) is a compact regional airport serving domestic flights, and its structure differs significantly from large international hubs. If you are accustomed to multi-story complexes, a pleasant simplicity awaits you here.

The airport operates with just one terminal. It is a small single-story building that combines absolutely all zones and functions: flight check-in, security screening, departure lounge, and baggage claim upon arrival. Thanks to this, navigation here is extremely intuitive, and it is practically impossible to get lost. All counters, gates, and services are within sight of each other.

Departure and arrival zones are not separated into different wings or floors. Essentially, it is the same space. Passengers arriving in Isafjordur cross the apron on foot after disembarking the aircraft and enter the building, where they collect their luggage in a small hall. For departing passengers, the process is also simplified to the maximum: after checking in at the single counter and passing a quick security check, you enter the general waiting hall, which is located right in front of the boarding gate.

Check-in and security control procedures are very quick due to the low passenger flow. Typically, all formalities take no more than 10–15 minutes. It is recommended to arrive at the airport approximately 45–60 minutes before departure — this time will be more than sufficient. The main advice for navigation is simple: upon entering the building, you will immediately see everything you need. Signage is minimal, as there is almost no need for it.

The history of Isafjordur Airport (IFJ) is inextricably linked to its unique and challenging location in one of the fjords in northwest Iceland. The runway was originally built by the British Army during World War II for military needs. However, the airport became a true lifeline for civil aviation only from 1960, when regular passenger transport began. Since then, it has played a key role in connecting the remote Westfjords region with the capital and the rest of the country, especially during winter months when land routes may be blocked.

The main feature of the airport's development has always been the need to adapt to harsh natural conditions. Located on a narrow sandy spit, it is surrounded by high mountains, making landing and takeoff some of the most difficult in Europe. Pilots must execute a sharp 180-degree turn inside the fjord to align with the landing path. This manoeuvre requires the highest level of skill and has become the airport's hallmark, attracting the attention of aviation enthusiasts from around the world.

Despite its modest dimensions, the airport has been modernized repeatedly to improve passenger safety and comfort. In 1999, a new, more modern terminal was opened to meet the growing needs of the region. One of the most important stages in recent history was the installation of modern navigation systems, such as RNP (Required Navigation Performance). This satellite technology allows pilots to follow a precisely defined trajectory, significantly increasing flight reliability in difficult weather conditions and limited visibility.

Among interesting facts, it is worth noting that due to the terrain, the pilot often makes the decision on the possibility of landing at the very last moment, already inside the fjord and assessing wind conditions visually. Landing in Isafjordur is not just a routine flight, but a genuine little adventure that offers passengers breathtaking views and unforgettable impressions even before their foot touches the ground of the Westfjords.

Isafjordur Airport (IFJ) is a compact regional airport serving as the gateway to the picturesque Westfjords region of Iceland. Given its small size, the range of services here is basic but sufficient for a comfortable wait for your flight. Do not expect the infrastructure of a large international hub, however, all the essentials for passengers are provided.

The terminal has a small waiting area where you can relax before departure. Shopping opportunities here are extremely limited, so it is better to make all purchases in the city of Isafjordur beforehand. Typically, a small buffet or vending machines are available for passengers to buy drinks and light snacks. Free Wi-Fi is provided throughout the airport, and there are power outlets in the waiting area for charging electronic devices.

Specialized services such as banks, currency exchange bureaus, or VIP lounges are absent at the airport. It is recommended to settle all financial matters in the city. A barrier-free environment has been created for passengers with reduced mobility, but it is better to notify your airline in advance if special assistance is needed. Families with children will also find it convenient due to the airport's compactness, although there are no separate play areas here. There is no permanent medical point in the terminal, but staff are trained to provide first aid and call emergency services if necessary.

Isafjordur Airport does not have its own hotels, business centres, or conference halls. All the nearest accommodation options and business services are located in Isafjordur itself, which is just a few minutes' drive from the terminal. There, travellers can easily find hotels, guesthouses, and restaurants to suit any taste and budget.

When planning a trip through Isafjordur Airport (IFJ), it is important to remember that this is a small regional airport primarily serving domestic flights. Consequently, the choice of catering establishments here is limited and designed for passengers who need a quick and simple snack before departure.

A small cafe or buffet usually operates in the airport's single terminal. Here you can purchase basic beverages such as coffee, tea, and sparkling water, as well as light snacks. The assortment typically includes sandwiches, pastries, chocolate, and crisps. Sometimes you can find traditional Icelandic treats, for example, 'kleinur' pastries or skyr. This is a good option for a quick snack, but one should not count on a full lunch or dinner.

Specialized dietary options (vegan, gluten-free, or Halal dishes) are likely to be absent in such a small airport. If you have strict dietary restrictions, it is recommended to bring food with you. The cafe's operating hours are directly linked to the flight schedule — it opens shortly before departure and closes after the last aircraft leaves.

Our tip: if you wish to have a substantial meal before your journey, it is better to do so at one of the restaurants or cafes in the city of Isafjordur before arriving at the airport. This will allow you to enjoy a wider selection of local Icelandic cuisine in a relaxed atmosphere.

To ensure your journey through the airport of Isafjordur goes smoothly, make use of these tips. The airport is small and mainly serves domestic flights, making it quite simple to navigate.

Arrival Time and Check-in: For domestic flights within Iceland, it is usually sufficient to arrive at the airport 1-1.5 hours before departure. Check-in and security screening processes here are very quick, without the long queues characteristic of major aviation hubs.

Seat Selection: Be sure to try and secure a window seat. The approach to Isafjordur is considered one of the most spectacular in the world: the aircraft manoeuvres within a narrow fjord surrounded by towering mountains. These views will be one of the most vivid impressions of the trip.

Hand Luggage: Standard carry-on rules apply: liquids in containers up to 100 ml must be packed in a transparent bag, and sharp objects are prohibited. Please note that on smaller aircraft flying to Isafjordur, stricter restrictions on the size and weight of hand luggage may apply. It is best to verify this information with your airline.

Transfers and Customs: Most flights head to Reykjavik. If you have a transfer to an international flight, remember: domestic flights usually arrive at Reykjavik Airport (RKV), while international flights depart from Keflavik Airport (KEF). Allow at least 3-4 hours for the transfer between them. As this is a domestic airport, there is no customs control for flights within the country.

Saving Time and Money: The most reliable way to save is to book airline tickets in advance, especially for the summer season when demand is highest. The choice of cafes and shops at the airport is very limited, so you can bring a light snack with you to save money.

Flight Delays: The weather in the Westfjords region is capricious and unpredictable. Strong winds, fog, or snowfall can cause delays or even flight cancellations. If you have a tight schedule, especially with a connection to an international flight, we recommend having a backup plan and staying in touch with the airline for the latest information on your flight status.