Icelandair Economy Class: What You Need to Know

Icelandair operates routes across North America and Europe, making it a popular choice for international travelers. Despite not being a top-tier airline, it offers several amenities and a unique flying experience in its economy class. Here’s what you can expect when booking an Icelandair economy ticket.

Seating and Cabin Comfort

Seats in Icelandair’s economy class generally provide a standard amount of legroom and comfort. The seat pitch, which measures the distance between the back of one seat and the same spot on the seat in front, averages around 31 inches. This is fairly typical for international flights. Seat width ranges from 17 to 18 inches, which is slightly narrower than some other airlines.

Cabin lighting often changes color to simulate a natural environment as part of Icelandair’s effort to reduce jet lag on long-haul flights. Passengers can also enjoy adjustable headrests and soft lighting for a more relaxing journey.

In-Flight Entertainment

Individual touch-screen monitors are available at each seat. The in-flight entertainment system offers a selection of movies, TV shows, music, and games. Icelandair updates its media library regularly to include recent releases and classic selections. Headphones are usually handed out by cabin crew at the beginning of the flight but bringing your own might offer better quality.

Meals and Beverages

One area where Icelandair differs from other airlines is its meal service in economy class. Meals and snacks are not automatically included in the ticket price. Passengers can purchase items from a menu that offers a variety of options, including Icelandic specialties. It’s advisable to pre-order meals online before your flight to ensure availability.

Complimentary beverages, including water, juices, and soft drinks, are available throughout the flight. Alcoholic beverages are also available for purchase. It’s worth noting that you can use credit or debit cards since Icelandair flights are cashless.

Baggage Allowance

For economy class passengers, Icelandair generally allows one carry-on bag and one personal item. The carry-on bag must not exceed 55x40x20 cm in dimensions or weigh more than 10 kg. The personal item could be a laptop bag or a small backpack.

Checked baggage is not included in the basic economy fare and must be purchased separately. Fees vary depending on the route and can be more affordable if added during booking rather than at the airport. Each piece of checked luggage should weigh no more than 23 kg.

Stopover Program

A unique feature of flying with Icelandair is the stopover in Reykjavik at no additional airfare cost. Passengers can extend their layover to up to seven days, allowing time to explore Iceland without affecting the price of the flight. Numerous tours and accommodations are curated for passengers to make the most of a stopover.

Wi-Fi and Connectivity

Wi-Fi is available on most Icelandair aircraft and can be purchased separately. Prices vary depending on the length of the flight and the type of usage. Basic messaging apps often come at a lower cost compared to streaming or downloading data.

Seats are equipped with USB ports and power outlets, which allow passengers to keep their devices charged throughout the flight. This can be particularly useful for long-haul travelers needing to stay connected.

Customer Service

Icelandair’s customer service is generally considered efficient and friendly. Flight attendants are often bilingual and can provide assistance in multiple languages. Service may include extra help for families with children, as well as for elderly passengers.

Onboard announcements are made in Icelandic and English, ensuring important information reaches all passengers. Cabin crew members are typically proactive in addressing customer needs and concerns.

Loyalty Program

Icelandair’s Saga Club loyalty program allows members to earn points on flights and through partner companies. Points can be redeemed for flight upgrades, additional baggage, or other services. Membership is free and applying can offer long-term benefits, especially for frequent flyers.

Booking and Check-in

Booking a flight on Icelandair’s website is straightforward. The site often features promotions and packages that include flights and stopovers, or even hotel stays in Reykjavik.

Online check-in opens 36 hours before departure, allowing passengers to choose seats and pay for any additional services. Mobile boarding passes make the process seamless, eliminating the need to print a physical ticket.

Icelandair also offers a telephone helpline and email support, facilitating easier communication for any issues or special requests.

Overall Value

Flying Icelandair economy offers good value, especially for those making use of the stopover in Iceland. While meals are not included, the ability to purchase them means passengers are not paying for something they may not desire. Comparing prices with other airlines could reveal that Icelandair provides competitive rates with added uniqueness in service.

For travelers interested in a brief yet enriching Icelandic experience coupled with their journey, Icelandair’s economy class is worth considering. It provides a comfortable and efficient mode of travel with enough amenities to keep passengers satisfied.