Icelandair has today announced Tel Aviv, Israel as a brand-new destination on its route network for the 2023 summer season.
From May 10 through to October 29, 2023 the airline will offer direct flights three times a week between Reykjavik and Tel Aviv from Keflavik Airport, on Wednesdays, Fridays and Sundays. Flight time from Iceland is around seven hours.
Demand for flights between Tel Aviv and Iceland has been rapidly increasing and the new gateway also opens convenient connections between Tel Aviv and North America, via Iceland.
Tel Aviv is Israel’s second largest city and offers visitors a mix of beautiful beaches, historical places, museums and galleries. Its close proximity to popular destinations of Jerusalem, Jordan, Bethlehem and the Dead Sea will allow Icelanders and transatlantic tourists alike the opportunity to explore more of this beautiful area. The new route will also give Tel Aviv locals more travel options to be able to explore Iceland, and greater connectivity to the US.
Top Copyright Photo: Icelandair Boeing 737-8 MAX 8 TF-ICU (msn 44355) BWI (Tony Storck). Image: 959614.
Icelandair has announced its newest North American gateway: Detroit, Michigan.
Seasonal flights from Detroit Metropolitan Wayne County Airport (DTW) to Keflavik (Reykjavík), Iceland (KEF) will begin on May 18, 2023 with four weekly nonstop flights through October 30, 2023.
Flight 872 will depart to Iceland at 8:30pm on Mondays, Tuesdays, Thursdays and Fridays utilizing a 160-seat Boeing 737MAX. Return flight 873 will depart Iceland bound for Detroit at 5:00pm on the same days and arrive at 6:25pm.
The flight time from The Motor City to Iceland is approximately six hours, with connections available at Icelandair’s Keflavík International Airport hub to more than 25 destinations in Iceland, Greenland, the United Kingdom, Scandinavia and Continental Europe. Icelandair passengers can also take a Stopover in Iceland for up to 7 nights at no additional airfare, en route to their final destination.
Top Copyright Photo: Icelandair Boeing 737-8 MAX 8 TF-ICB (msn 44568) LHR (Antony J. Best). Image: 959456.
Korean Air Boeing 777-300 (HL7782) was taxiing as flight KE908 to Seoul at London Heathrow Airport for departure on September 28.
The left wingtip of HL7782 collided with a parked Icelandair Boeing 757-200 (TF-FIK) preparing for departure to Keflavik. The rudder of TF-FIK was struck by the wingtip of HL7782.
INCIDENT: Korean Air Boeing 777-300ER HL7782, taxiing out on #KE908 to Seoul/Incheon, clipped the tail of Icelandair Boeing 757-200 TF-FIK while taxiing at London/Heathrow at ~1900UTC/2000BST tonight. No injuries reported from either aircraft.https://t.co/B5hEG1zDWkpic.twitter.com/tFS10gB0BW
Air Greenland and Icelandair representatives after the signing of the LOI. From left: Tomas Leth Jørgensen, Manager Network & Revenue Management, Tómas Ingason Icelandair Chief Revenue Officer, Jacob Nitter Sørensen, CEO, Helgi Már Björgvinsson, Icelandair Director Partnerships and Corporate affairs and CFO, Mogens E. Jensen.
The companies see common opportunities for cooperation that will link the two companies’ networks, Air Greenland’s extensive network in Greenland and Icelandair’s network from Keflavik International Airport. The cooperation will benefit both companies’ customers and increase connectivity in their markets to, from, via and within Greenland and Iceland.
Icelandair has integrated its regional operations with the international network by moving services to destinations in Greenland from Reykjavik Airport to Keflavik International Airport. This change provides even more convenient connections to and from Air Greenland’s extensive network in Greenland to Iceland and Icelandair’s extensive route network in Europe and North America.
The airlines’ CEOs look forward to the increased cooperation.
Icelandair’s CEO, Bogi Nils Bogason, states:
“We are very pleased to increase the cooperation with Air Greenland. We focus on partnering with like-minded airlines that share our passion and commitment towards excellent customer experience and sustainability. With better connectivity to Air Greenland’s comprehensive route network in Greenland and to Icelandair’s hub at Keflavik International Airport we will be able to offer seamless connections between Greenland and our extensive network in Europe and North America. We will benefit from Air Greenland’s local knowledge and investment in infrastructure in Greenland and Air Greenland will benefit from our comprehensive sales and distribution network in Europe and North America.”
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Air Greenland’s CEO, Jacob Nitter Sørensen, states:
“We see increased cooperation as strategically beneficial for Greenland, as the connection to Icelandair’s many international routes will create better accessibility for Greenland and provide better opportunities for business and leisure travelers to easily reach Greenland. We will thus ensure that residents will find it easier to get out into the world, and the world will find it easier to get to Greenland. In addition, tourists coming to Iceland will have better opportunities to visit Greenland. Finally, increased cooperation will mean that our customers will be able to buy a trip via our website, which will also feature Icelandair’s extensive route network. Icelandair’s customers will be able to do the same, making it easier to get a coherent itinerary to and from Greenland.”
Icelandair has begun another “National Geographic” worldwide tour with their 2000-built Boeing 757-256, registered as TF-LLL (msn 29307).
Copyright Photo: Joe G. Walker.
Its arrival at Boeing Field (BFI) in Seattle, as flight “ICE 1238”, was delayed by at least 1/2 hour due to low clouds and reduced visibility which forced the flight to be vectored several times and included a missed approach before finally touching down.
Joe G. Walker reporting from Seattle.
ITINERARY
Join a team of world-renowned experts from National Geographic and the Wall Street Journal on an epic journey to centers of creativity and innovation across the globe, from Seattle to Samarkand and beyond. Experience the convergence of ancient traditions and modern advances with visits to secluded temples and cutting-edge research facilities, and meet local leaders pushing the fields of science and technology from Seoul to Helsinki. Witness firsthand the consequences of climate change on business, security, and everyday existence in the far north as you meet with local business owners or hike with reindeer herders. While exploring the world alongside archaeologists, artists, and entrepreneurs, gain unprecedented insight into “the future of everything.”
This trip is offered in collaboration with The Wall Street Journal.
DAYS 1-2: SEATTLE, WASHINGTON, U. S./WASHINGTON DC
CROSS THE INTERNATIONAL DATE LINE
Arrive in Seattle and meet our hosts, our trip staff and team of experts, and fellow travelers during a welcome reception and dinner at our hotel. We’ll also be joined by Matt Murray, the editor in chief of The Wall Street Journal. The next morning, board the private jet bound for Kyoto and cross the international date line, losing a day in transit.
Meals Included:Dinner
Accommodations:Four Seasons Hotel Seattle
DAYS 3-5: KYOTO, JAPAN
THE FUTURE OF INNOVATION
Touch down in Osaka and transfer to Kyoto, a center of innovation and Japan’s imperial capital for more than 1,000 years. The city’s Buddhist temples, shrines, and serene gardens vividly recall the glory of the Japanese empire and have been collectively designated a UNESCO World Heritage site. We’ll meet up with Peter Landers, Tokyo bureau chief for The Wall Street Journal , who will share insights gleaned from more than 20 years’ experience reporting on Asia.
Begin our exploration at Shimadzu, one of the world’s top manufacturers of technologies for use in the medical field. Tour the company’s head office and cutting-edge laboratory. Then visit the Kyoto Handicraft Center for a firsthand look at the creation multipurpose furniture, followed by a talk with the president of HOSOO, a renowned Japanese textile company founded in 1688. Later, delve deeper during a presentation of how electronic giants like Panasonic are working with the Kyoto-based GO ON consortium of craftspeople to create products that merge technology and tradition. In the afternoon, opt to visit the colorful and aromatic alleys of Nishiki Market, one of the most popular food markets in the city, and sample local specialties. Or venture to Gion, Kyoto’s renowned geisha district for an opportunity to experience the local nightlight and perhaps catch a glimpse of a geisha—traditional female entertainers recognizable by their distinctive makeup.
The following day, select from several options. Take a guided walk in the otherworldly bamboo groves of Arashiyama, or visit Ryoan-ji temple, which harbors one of Japan’s most famous rock gardens. Alternatively, explore the iconic Zen Buddhist temple of Kinkaku-ji, famously called the Golden Pavilion, and admire its gleaming reflection in the adjacent pond. You may also choose to discover Kyoto’s traditional wooden townhomes, or machiya, many of which are being restored and revitalized by a leading Japanese garment retailer. Learn more about this project, then join a local chef at one of the machiya properties for a hands-on cooking class. Cap off the day with a visit to Kyoto University of the Arts and its Ultra Factory art production studio, designed by renowned contemporary artist Kenji Yanobe. Hear from a professor about the Open Innovation Project, which aims to explore the intersections between art and technology and foster creative solutions to social problems.
Meals Included:Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner Daily
Accommodations:Four Seasons Hotel Kyoto
DAYS 6-8: SINGAPORE, SINGAPORE
FUTURE OF SUSTAINABILITY
Cosmopolitan Singapore is a former British colony that has transformed over a half-century into one of the world’s leading financial centers. This island city-state, which boasts impressive skyscrapers, an expansive port, and lush green spaces, has found innovative ways to balance urban development with sustainable ecological conservation. In the company of a National Geographic Expert, get a firsthand look at the technologies defining the cities of tomorrow, as well as Singapore’s role in global trade, a critical component of the economic ecosystem. Experience the extraordinary Gardens by the Bay, a botanical oasis featuring a unique fusion of technology and nature. Built on reclaimed land in the heart of Singapore, this 250-acre park is home to the world’s largest glass greenhouse, thousands of plants, and a grove of fantastical, solar-powered “supertrees”—vertical structures up to 164 feet tall that capture rainwater and filter exhaust.
Visit the Sri Mariamman Temple, the oldest Hindu temple in Singapore, and an ornate example of Dravidian architecture that has served as a religious and social center to immigrants since its erection in 1827. Many Indian and Chinese craftsmen have contributed to the temple over the course of time, giving it the detailed sculptures and vibrant paintings it boasts today. Or immerse yourself in the tropical setting of the Singapore Zoo, where wildlife roam freely amid naturalistic habitats. Take in panoramic views of Singapore’s futuristic skyline—including the whimsical creations of the Gardens by the Bay. Then, venture into a lively night market to experience the city’s multiethnic culture which blends Chinese, Malay, and Indian traditions.
Meals Included:Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner Daily
Accommodations:The Fullerton Bay Hotel
DAYS 9-10: SEOUL, SOUTH KOREA
THE FUTURE OF CULTURE
Our next flight brings us to Seoul, the cosmopolitan capital of South Korea. Seoul has rapidly attained prominence as an economic, political, and cultural hub following the so-called “miracle on the Han River”—a period of exponential economic growth during the second half of the 20th century. The metropolis boasts a 15th-century UNESCO World Heritage–listed temple, as well as countless marvels of modern architecture.
Ascend to the top of N Seoul Tower for an unparalleled view of the vast city skyline. Then venture into the busy streets below and check in to our hotel for a panel discussion with a Wall Street Journal reporter. We’ll learn about the research that is leading the way for global advances in our understanding of the human brain.
The next day, visit a brain research center and learn about current projects and potential breakthroughs. Later, choose to explore South Korean culture and history at a cooking class in the thousand-year-old Buddhist temple of Jingwansa or at a demonstration on Hanboks, traditional South Korean ceremonial attire. Dine at a restaurant located in the former resident of the first president of South Korea.
Meals Included:Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner Daily
Accommodations:Four Seasons Hotel Seoul
DAYS 11-13: ULAANBAATAR OR GOBI, MONGOLIA
THE FUTURE OF NATURAL RESOURCES
Fly to Ulaanbaatar, founded centuries ago as a gathering place for nomadic princes, and now the cultural and financial heart of Mongolia. Take a charter flight to the Gobi and settle into traditional ger tents. Gather to hear paleontologist and National Geographic Emerging Explorer Federico Fanti discuss new methodologies for curbing the illegal trade of fossils and natural resources in the Gobi.
During our stay in the Gobi, explore the landscape of steep red plateaus, following in the footsteps of Genghis Khan. Explore the mesmerizing Moltsog Els sand dunes, then meet a nomadic family for tea. Hike between the towering canyon walls of Yol Valley, ride horseback across the steppe, and learn how to construct a ger. Participate in a demonstration of Naadam, a traditional sporting festival, and head to the famed Flaming Cliffs—where Mongolian paleontologist and National Geographic Emerging Explorer Bolortsetseg Minjin is working to establish a dinosaur museum—and take a photo walk with our National Geographic photographer at sunset.
Alternative: Instead of the Gobi, travelers may choose to explore Ulaanbaatar and Gorkhi-Terelj National Park. In Ulaanbaatar, examine the collections at the National Museum of Mongolia and visit the Gandantegchinlen Monastery. Then travel to Gorkhi-Terelji National Park and check in to our hotel. Explore the park’s rolling hills and rocky outcrops on hikes and horseback rides. Experience a traditional Buddhist shaman ceremony and enjoy a traditional musical performance. On your return to the city, view the 130-foot Genghis Khan Statue and take a tour of its museum.
Meals Included:Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner Daily
Accommodations:Three Camel Lodge or Shangri-La Hotel Ulaanbaatar and Terelj Hotel
DAYS 14-15: SAMARKAND, UZBEKISTAN
THE FUTURE OF TRADE
Depart Ulaanbaatar for Samarkand, one of the oldest continuously inhabited cities in Central Asia. For centuries, Samarkand was one of the most important stops along the legendary Silk Road—the trade route connecting China and the Mediterranean. Present-day Samarkand is a remarkable crossroads of culture that UNESCO has recognized with World Heritage status. Visit the Gur-e Amir Mausoleum, burial place of the conqueror Timur—also known as Tamerlane—and explore the elaborate madrassas on Registan Square. Meet the next generation of Uzbekistan’s artists at a performance by a youth dance troupe. In the evening, gather for cocktails and a panel discussion in which we examine the impact of the historic Silk Road on urbanization in Europe and Asia. Discuss what the future might hold for regional and global trade with archaeologist and National Geographic magazine editor and writer Kristin Romey, who has worked on numerous excavations in Central Asia.
Delve deeper into this cultural mecca with a visit to Siab Bazaar, one of the oldest and largest open-air markets in Samarkand. Tour an archaeological site, hike through traditional villages in the Gissar foothills, or meet master craftsmen and take part in a paper-making workshop. As the sun sets over Samarkand, celebrate the riches of the Silk Road with a traditional feast overlooking the courtyard of a majestic madrassa.
Meals Included:Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner Daily
Accommodations:Registan Plaza, Samarkand
DAYS 16-17: TALLINN, ESTONIA
THE FUTURE OF A DIGITIZED SOCIETY
Since emerging from the shadow of the Soviet Union after the peaceful Singing Revolution, Estonia has become a world leader in digital development and e-Government. The establishment in the 1990s of Tiigrihüpe, or the Tiger’s Leap project, initiated substantial investment in digital infrastructure and information technology education, which has situated Estonia at the forefront of modern cyber technology. Arrive in Tallinn for an evening reception at a historic building in the old town, and discuss the impact of digital communication and imaging on society with Wall Street Journal deputy chief news editor Gráinne McCarthy.
Journey through Estonia’s fascinating history the following day on a city tour. Visit the Estonian Academy of Music and Theatre for a centennial celebration show in a new concert hall or attend a lecture at Tallinn University of Technology. Tonight, experience Estonia’s gastronomic revolution at one of the top restaurants in the country.
Meals Included:Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner Daily
Accommodations:Hotel Telegraaf
DAYS 18-20: HELSINKI AND LAPLAND, FINLAND
THE FUTURE OF THE ARCTIC
Embark a fast ferry for the crossing to Finland, where we’ll focus on climate change and its implications for business, security, and natural resources in the Northern Hemisphere. At our evening reception, learn how global warming and geopolitics are creating a new “cold war” in the far north with Wall Street Journal Moscow bureau chief Ann Simmons. Afterward, enjoy dinner on the waterfront under the ethereal light of the midnight sun.
In the morning, explore the important sites of Finland’s capital. Sail through Helsinki harbor to the 18th-century sea fortress of Suomenlinna, a UNESCO World Heritage site. Take a private tour of this stronghold and delve into tunnels and corridors normally off-limits to the public. Later, we’ll hop on a tram to the fascinating Temppeliaukio church, locally known as the “church of the rock.” This evening, ferry to Klippan Island for a private dinner at the elegant Restaurant Saaristo.
Continue exploring Helsinki on a variety of excursions the following day. Embark on a boat tour of the picturesque Helsinki archipelago, or discover the city by bike. Experience a traditional Finnish sauna, or pay a visit to beautiful Hvitträsk, a lakeside studio home-turned-museum. This afternoon, choose to embark on a kayaking adventure, or admire contemporary Finnish art at the Kiasma Museum or the Amos Rex Art Museum.
The next morning, depart by private jet to Ivalo—the gateway to the Arctic landscapes of Lapland. Here, the local Sami people have herded reindeer through the deep forests and snow-covered plains for thousands of years. Enjoy a tour of the Sami Parliament, and learn about Sami culture at the Siida Sami Museum during an optional visit. You may also choose to visit a nearby reindeer farm, where we’ll have the opportunity to hear traditional Sami music and participate in reindeer lasso throwing. Alternatively, venture to Lapland’s legendary gold fields, where the Lapland gold rush took place in the latter part of the 19th century.
Meals Included:Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner Daily
Accommodations:Hotel Kämp; Star Arctic Hotel
DAYS 21-23: REYKJAVÍK, ICELAND
THE FUTURE OF ALTERNATIVE ENERGY
Reconvene for our private jet flight to Iceland, a world leader in alternative energy. Tour Reykjavík, where historic neighborhoods blend with modern architectural marvels, and visit Harpa concert hall. Our evening panel discussion focuses on the future of renewable energy, with commentary from glaciologist and National Geographic Emerging Explorer M Jackson.
Explore Iceland’s active geology and its ancient history on a tour of the Golden Circle. Visit Thingvellir National Park, home to the oldest democratically elected parliament still in operation; glimpse thrilling eruptions at the Geysir geothermal area; and take in the stunning view of Gullfoss waterfall. Later, enjoy a soak in the Blue Lagoon. Alternatively, set out on a snowmobiling adventure atop a glacier this afternoon.
The next day, experience Iceland’s natural wonders across Langjökull, Iceland’s second largest glacier. Choose to venture into the mouth of the dormant Thrihnukagigur volcano and descend alongside expert guides to the floor of the vast magma chamber. Alternatively, visit an Icelandic horse farm and learn training techniques before heading out on a trail ride over the vast rolling hills outside of Reykjavík. Afterward, join the farmers for lunch and share stories over home-cooked Icelandic fare. On the final night, gather for a farewell gala dinner at Harpa Concert Hall.
Meals Included:Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner Daily
Accommodations:Reykjavik Konsulat Hotel
DAY 24: WASHINGTON D.C., US
Board the jet for our final flight to Washington, D.C. and connect with your commercial flight home. Alternatively, you can request a room for the night at the Hyatt Regency Dulles.
This week, Icelandair participated in a significant event in Icelandic aviation history when the President of Iceland and the Prime Minister were the first passengers to fly in a 100% electric airplane. These are the first steps in an important journey towards more environmentally friendly aviation. The opportunities for Iceland are great due to short domestic flight routes, access to green energy and Iceland’s location between Europe and North America.
The first electric airplane in Iceland, bearing the registration TF-KWH is a two-seater Pipistrel, manufactured in Slovenia. It is of similar size as the planes that the flight academies use for flight training.
Cooperation is the key to successful energy exchange
The company Rafmagnsflug ehf. (Electric Flight) brought the first electric plane to Iceland with the aim of taking an initiative towards the energy exchange of aviation, training staff in this new technology and introducing it to the nation. Rafmagnsflug ehf. was originally founded by Matthías Sveinbjörnsson and Friðrik Pálsson in the end of 2021, but they have been working for the past three years to get the first electric plane to Iceland. Behind Rafmagnsflug ehf. are companies and individuals who want to contribute to speeding up the energy exchange in aviation and introduce the latest technological innovations.
Cooperation between stakeholders is a key factor when it comes to energy exchange, and it is therefore important that the largest sponsors are from aviation, airport operations, energy production and tourism; Icelandair, Isavia, Landsvirkjun and Hotel Rangá. Other sponsors are Landsbankinn, Geirfugl ATO, The Reykjavik Flight Academy, and the Iceland Aviation Academy, together with Matthías, Friðrik and Herjólfur Guðbjartsson.
The airplane will be used for flight training, but it is also expected that the public will be able to purchase sightseeing flights with this first electric plane in Iceland and experience traveling the skies on a Zero-Emission plane.
Icelandair’s commitment to net zero emissions by 2050
Icelandair has set ambitious new goals to reduce carbon emissions:
In line with the airline industry’s goals, we have made a commitment to reach net zero emissions by 2050.
In addition, we have set a medium-term target to reduce our carbon emissions by 50% per operational ton kilometer (OTK) by 2030 compared to 2019 levels. This is a measurement of carbon emissions relative to carried passengers and cargo loads.
Icelandair has announced an extension of summer seasonal flights from Portland, OR (PDX) and Raleigh-Durham (RDU) to Keflavik (Reykjavik) into January 2023.
As Iceland becomes an increasingly popular winter destination, travelers from Oregon and North Carolina will now have the opportunity to travel non-stop to the land of Fire and Ice during Northern Lights season with connections to the hottest destinations in Europe.
The extended PDX & RDU season will add four flights a week from November 1, 2022 – January 7, 2023.
PDX to KEF flights (Monday, Tuesday, Thursday, Saturday)
RDU to KEF flights (Monday, Wednesday, Friday, Saturday)
EBIT USD 1.2 million improving by USD 63.4 million year-on-year despite fuel price more than doubling
Operating income USD 328.9 million up by USD 251.4 million
Passenger revenue driving the increase in operating income
Continued recovery in capacity; 76% of 2019 production levels vs 58% in Q1 2022
Load factor significantly improving year-on-year; 78.5% vs 47.3%
Almost one thousand employees recruited during the quarter
Strong cashflow from operations (USD 121.7 million)
Record liquid funds available at end of June USD 463 million
Committed to taking delivery of six more efficient B737 MAX aircraft, supporting further growth and sustainability targets
The second half of the year expected to be profitable with Q3 performance significantly stronger than last year
Bogi Nils Bogason, President & CEO
“Turning a profit in the second quarter is a major milestone on our road to financial sustainability. Utilizing the flexibility of our network and robust infrastructure has allowed us to rapidly increase capacity in line with high demand, achieving improved load factor and higher yields, despite various external factors affecting our business, such as fuel price more than doubling between years. This kind of a turnaround does not happen by itself. It is the outcome of relentless effort by our people, whose teamwork and dedication has been remarkable during this challenging time. I would like to thank them for all their hard work.
Our ramp-up has continued into July with more destinations, frequent flights to our most popular destinations and diverse departure times throughout each day. Like the rest of the industry, we have been faced with various challenges, such as employee shortage at airport operators in Europe and North America that has caused flight disruptions, as well as supply chain issues that have delayed the return of aircraft out of maintenance. We are, however, in a good position to respond to such disruptions with our extensive flight schedule and frequency of flights that enables us to get our passengers quickly and efficiently to their destinations. In addition, our employees have also taken various innovative actions to minimize the impact on our customers.
The outlook for Q3 is good with strong bookings. We expect our flight schedule to reach around 83% of 2019 levels in Q3 and around 90% of 2019 in Q4 2022, despite the on-going geopolitical and economic uncertainty. It is good to see such strong demand to Iceland and the transatlantic market recovering well. The outlook is also good in our cargo and leasing businesses. As we have seen in the past and what the pandemic and the subsequent ramp-up phase have clearly demonstrated is that we have a robust business model and an excellent team of employees. We will continue to work hard on unleashing the opportunities we see for Icelandair going forward.”
When the aircraft is full but a young passenger is carrying a VIT (Very Important Teddy) large enough for his own seat, where else should he go but the cockpit? Winston traveled in style from Gatwick in the company of our pilots.🐶https://t.co/OLl1Azp64kpic.twitter.com/ogn8uoJhHn
