Icelandair has touched down at Edinburgh Airport for the first time, marking the start of regular flights between Scotland's capital and Reykjavik. The carrier's inaugural service departed today, with the route now set to run throughout the year following strong initial interest.
Originally planned as a seasonal connection operating from September through April, the airline has extended the schedule to year-round operations in response to passenger demand.
The launch coincides with a big anniversary for the Icelandic carrier, which has been serving Scottish destinations for eight decades.
The new connection uses a Boeing 737 MAX 8 aircraft, operating up to four times weekly between Edinburgh and Keflavík International Airport. Passengers can access Iceland's capital directly, with the service also providing connections to approximately 60 destinations across Icelandair's network.
Britons could catch a glimpse of the Northern Lights in Reykjavik
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Travellers on today's first departure received commemorative luggage tags marking the carrier's 80-year history of serving Scotland. This is its first scheduled service from Edinburgh Airport.
The route offers transatlantic connectivity options, positioning Edinburgh as a gateway for onward travel through Iceland's hub airport.
Edinburgh Airport's chief commercial officer, Stephanie Wear, said: “It’s great to see Icelandair finally land at Edinburgh Airport. It’s the fruition of years of hard work from both sides, and we’re delighted to welcome this newest airline to Scotland’s capital - and to mark the inaugural flight by announcing the service will now extend year-round is fantastic news.
“Of course, it’s a new flight and a new airline, but it’s also a signal of new possibilities and opportunities. Icelandair provides fantastic onward travel connections to a range of destinations, and we’re always striving to make travel as seamless as possible.
“We continue to benefit from the strength of Edinburgh’s market and the confidence in it, and we look forward to a successful partnership with Icelandair that enhances our route network and supports our growth ambitions.”
Icelandair's President and CEO, Bogi Nils Bogason, added: "We’re delighted to welcome Edinburgh to our network, especially as we celebrate 80 years of flying to Scotland.
"The new service opens up this remarkable Scottish city to even more travellers, and also offers the people of Edinburgh and the surrounding areas the chance to explore Iceland and beyond.
NEW ROUTES
Holidaymakers can stay in Reykjavik or opt for onward travel
| GETTY"With a network of around 60 destinations, passengers can enhance their journey by taking advantage of our stopover program and enjoying a memorable stay in the Land of Ice and Fire while en route.
“For generations, we’ve had the honour of connecting Scotland’s majestic landscapes with Iceland’s extraordinary natural wonders and far beyond. Introducing our new Edinburgh route is a testament to our long-standing commitment to Scottish travellers, and we look forward to welcoming both loyal and first-time passengers as we strengthen the bridge between our nations.”
In more new route news, four UK airports will get new routes to scenic Nordic countries with natural beauty and bustling cities.