Tag Archives: Icelandair

Icelandair is coming to Pittsburgh and Halifax

Icelandair Boeing 737-8 MAX 8 TF-ICI (msn 64992) AMS (Ton Jochems). Image: 961850.

Icelandair introduces its flight schedule for 2024, the most extensive schedule to date.

The Company will offer flights to over 50 destinations, with three connection banks within the day with daily flights to 28 destinations in Europe and North America, with more than one flight a day to 19 destinations thereof.

Halifax and Pittsburgh are new destinations in summer 2024 and frequency will be increased to a number of destinations. Increased connectivity will offer 800 different connections and far more through codeshare agreements with other airlines. In 2024, available seat kilometers (ASK) are expected to increase by at least 10% from the previous year.

Three Boeing 737 MAX 8 aircraft will be added to Icelandair’s fleet in 2024. The Company’s fleet will then consist of 42 aircraft, thereof 21 737 MAX.

Halifax and Pittsburg new destinations in North America

Icelandair will for the first time offer flights to Pittsburgh, the Company’s twelfth destination in the United States. With four flights a week, the schedule will be offered from mid-May until the end of October. Pittsburgh is Pennsylvania’s second largest city and lies on the banks of three rivers. The city of three bridges, has long been associated with steel and industry, but it also has cultural charm and a number of beautiful green parks.

After a few years break, flights to Halifax will restart, with three flights a week from May 31 until mid-October 2024. Halifax is the capital of Nova Scotia, on the east coast of Canada. A vibrant city and a bustling center of trade, commerce and marine industry the city is an intriguing destination, ideal for a relaxing family holiday.

Top Copyright Photo: Icelandair Boeing 737-8 MAX 8 TF-ICI (msn 64992) AMS (Ton Jochems). Image: 961850.

Icelandair aircraft photo gallery:

Icelandair orders 13 Airbus A321XLR, becoming a new Airbus customer

Airbus made this announcement:

Icelandair, the main Icelandic airline based in Keflavik, has placed a firm order for 13 Airbus A321XLR. The order makes Icelandair a new Airbus customer. The airline is also planning to lease four A321LRs.

With its extra long range, the A321XLR will allow Icelandair to seize new market opportunities. The aircraft will also enable the airline to reduce its operating costs, support its sustainability targets and at the same time offer its passengers the best in cabin comfort.

Icelandair also made this announcement:

As previously announced, Icelandair and Airbus signed a Memorandum of Understanding for the purchase of Airbus A321XLR aircraft on 7 April 2023. The final purchase agreement has now been finalized. Icelandair has made 13 A321XLR firm orders and has purchase rights for up to 12 additional aircraft.

Deliveries will start in 2029. The agreed purchase price of the 13 aircraft is confidential. The financing of the aircraft is yet to be determined but the Company will explore financing options closer to the delivery dates.

As previously announced, the Company has been in advanced discussions with aircraft lessors regarding a lease of A321LR aircraft. The Company has now finalized long-term lease agreements with SMBC Aviation Capital Limited, for four new A321LR aircraft, scheduled to be delivered from Airbus in the fourth quarter of 2024.

Icelandair to fly to the Faroe Islands in cooperation with Atlantic Airways

Icelandair has announced it will fly to the Faroe Islands in cooperation with Atlantic Airways.

The 45-minute flight will connect Kflavik with Vagar with its Bombardier DHC-8-402s starting in May 2024.

The new route will operate four days a week.

Icelandair and Atlantic Airways have announced a new partnership.

Vaga Airport in the Faroe Islands webcam:

Webcam link: https://www.fae.fo/en/

Icelandair is coming to Israel

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 aircraft photo gallery:

Icelandair is coming to Detroit

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.

Icelandair aircraft photo gallery:

Icelandair extends the season for both Rome and Nice next year

Icelandair has announced it will extend the season for both Rome and Nice for the 2023 summer season due to a good response in 2022.

Rome service will be operated from March 24 through October 31, 2023.

Nice service will be operated from June 8 through September 4, 2023.

Top Copyright Photo Photo: Icelandair Boeing 737-8 MAX 8 TF-ICO (msn 44358) ZRH (Andi Hiltl). Image: 959249.

Icelandair aircraft photo gallery:

Icelandair to fly scheduled flights to Las Palmas in the Canary Islands

Icelandair will launched scheduled weekly service from Keflavik to Las Palmas (Gran Canaria) in the Canary Islands on November 15.

The weekly service will be operated through April 11, 2023.

Top Copyright Photo: Icelandair Boeing 737-8 MAX 8 TF-ICY (msn 44354) ZRH (Andi Hiltl). Image: 958023.

Icelandair aircraft slide show:

Two airliners have a minor collision on the ramp at London Heathrow

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/B5hEG1zDWk pic.twitter.com/tFS10gB0BW
— Airport Webcams (@AirportWebcams) September 28, 2022

Air Greenland and Icelandair to increase cooperation

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.”

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.”

Air Greenland aircraft photo gallery:

Icelandair is operating TF-LLL on a worldwide National Geographic tour

Icelandair has begun another “National Geographic” worldwide tour with their 2000-built Boeing 757-256, registered as TF-LLL (msn 29307).

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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.

Optional Accomodation::Hyatt Regency Dulles

Icelandair aircraft photo gallery: