The Airline Of Choice For Trans-Atlantic Flights

Icelandair's origins can be traced back to 1937, with the establishment of a one-aircraft airline called Flugfelag Akureyrar. Over the following decades, the airline changed name a few more times, and by the late 1940s, it was offering routes to and from Scotland, Scandinavia and North America. Following a state-sponsored merger in 1979, the airline received its current name and began focusing on the trans-Atlantic flight market. Icelandair continued to expand its route network and now serves over 40 destinations in the Atlantic and Pacific coasts of North America, Iceland and 14 European countries.

Flying with Icelandair

Seat classes include Economy, that's arranged in rows of 3 seats with average legroom of 81 cm and including a free checked baggage allowance; Economy Comfort, featuring seats with a legroom of 84 cm, complimentary meals and Business check-in; and Saga Class, which offers 4-abreast seats with legroom of 101 cm and a range of complimentary freebies.

This airline is known for offering very competitive fares between North America and Europe, especially during the winter and when booking tickets six to eight months in advance. There are six airfare types available: three in Economy (Special, Economy and Flex), two in Economy Comfort (Special and Economy Comfort) and the highest priced fares known as Saga fares. Aside from the actual rates, airfares differ in terms of baggage allowance, fees on changes and cancellations, mileage accrual and in-flight amenities.

To earn miles and enjoy access to discounted rates when using the services of partner companies, travellers can sign up to Saga Club, which is the airline's frequent flyer programme. Points and miles can be used to book award flights, upgrades and to make duty-free purchases on-board.

Practical Information

Online check-in opens 36 to 24 hours before departure depending on the route. Paperless boarding passes can be used by travellers who have an iOS device and the airline's app. Other check-in options include the self-service kiosks available at certain airports and airport desk check-in. More information is available here.

Baggage Allowance:

• Checked baggage limits are calculated depending on flight origin, destination and class of service, but all tickets entitle passengers to check one piece of luggage free of charge. The bag's weight is limited to 22 kg (50 lb) and the sum of all dimensions cannot be larger than 157 cm (62 inches). Additional bags can be checked at an extra fee, which is discounted if it is booked online or by phone through the airline's service centre.
• The carry-on allowance consists of a reasonably sized personal item plus a cabin bag no heavier than 10 kg (22 lb). Carry-on dimensions should be equal to or lower than 55 x 20 x 40 cm (L x W x H).
• Economy Comfort and Saga Class ticket holders travelling on trans-Atlantic flights or between Iceland and Europe have a higher baggage allowance.
• Details on baggage limits and restrictions can be viewed here.