Last month, Icelandair announced new codeshare agreements with Atlantic Airways and Air Greenland at the Arctic Circle Assembly in Reykjavik, aimed at enhancing connectivity across the North Atlantic region. This development will allow passengers to explore destinations in Greenland and the Faroe Islands seamlessly through Icelandair’s hub at Keflavik International Airport.
Atlantic Airways, the national airline of the Faroe Islands, will become a key partner in Icelandair's strategy to increase access to the remote Arctic archipelago. Icelandair’s Chief Commercial Officer, Tómas Ingason, noted that last summer saw a surge in American tourists visiting the Faroe Islands due to Icelandair’s Keflavik connection. He added, “We’re proud to be able to open up these somewhat niche markets, similar to what Iceland was maybe 20-25 years ago.” The codeshare is expected to be fully operational by the first quarter of 2025, pending certification.
Air Greenland, based in Nuuk, Greenland, will further expand Icelandair’s network in the Arctic. The codeshare aligns with the anticipated opening of a new international airport in Nuuk, scheduled for November 28, 2024. The new facility includes an extended runway to accommodate larger aircraft, enabling longer-haul flights. Icelandair will also upgrade its Nuuk route to the Boeing 737 MAX by next summer, offering streamlined connections for travelers through Keflavik.
Icelandair’s recent codeshare agreements also include partnerships with TAP Air Portugal, Southwest Airlines, and Emirates. With TAP Air Portugal, Icelandair will offer passengers connections between its expanding European destinations and North America, including year-round service to Lisbon. The Southwest Airlines collaboration enables connections to nearly 120 North American cities through Baltimore/Washington International Thurgood Marshall Airport (BWI), and future interlining opportunities are anticipated.
The codeshare with Emirates, announced earlier this year, will enhance connectivity to the Middle East via Dubai, allowing Icelandair passengers to access Emirates’ extensive network.
These strategic partnerships reinforce Icelandair’s position as a major player in the transatlantic market, with its complimentary stopover program continuing to attract travelers seeking to explore Iceland on their way to other destinations.
