Icelandair to integrate domestic and international operations

The flag carrier aims to streamline its route network to include simple domestic connections 

From March 16, the networks of Icelandair and Air Iceland Connect – Icelandair Group’s domestic airline operation – will be integrated into one network under a single brand. 

The carrier says the objective of this unification is to ensure a sustainable future for domestic operations in Iceland and the West Nordic region, while also strengthening and simplifying the company's operations. 

Icelandair 757
Photo Aviation Image Network/Bailey

Local destinations all around Iceland – including Akureyri, Egilsstaðir, Ísafjörður, and Vestmannaeyjar – as well as Greenland, will gain visibility on Icelandair's website through one search, one ticket and a connection to the route network in Europe and North America. 

Bogi Nils Bogason, CEO of Icelandair, said: “The integration of Icelandair and Air Iceland Connect is an important step that will contribute to a stronger and more streamlined airline and improved air transport across our domestic and international route network.  

Fl
Photo Flickr Commons/Tony Hisgett

“This is a complex project that we will take in steps. That's why we put great emphasis on clear communication with customers and open dialogue with key stakeholders around Iceland about how we will ensure the development of domestic flights with the value and experience of our customers in mind. 

“In the long run, as our domestic flights become more visible in Icelandair’s booking engines we hope to see our customers from Europe and North America connecting to domestic destinations across our homeland.” 

After the integration process is complete, domestic and regional flights will be operated on Icelandair's FI flight numbers although the companies' operating licenses will remain separate.  

The product range and the services available on domestic flights are currently being reviewed, with new offerings also in development which will be introduced in the spring.