Icelandair announces new flight service connecting Reykjavik with Istanbul

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Icelandair announces new flight service connecting Reykjavik with Istanbul

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Airbus A380 | Airbus

By Sky Industry News

Nov 15, 2024

Icelandair has announced a new addition to its network, with flights to Istanbul set to commence in September next year. The service will enhance connection opportunities across Asia and is part of the airline's codeshare agreement with Turkish Airlines.

The flights from Keflavik International Airport (KEF) to Istanbul Airport (IST) are scheduled to begin on September 5, 2025. They will operate four times a week using Boeing 737-800 aircraft, with an estimated flight time of five hours and 30 minutes.

Bogi Nils Bogason, President and CEO of Icelandair, shared his enthusiasm for the new route: “I look forward to adding the great destination of Istanbul to our extensive route network and to further expand the partnership with Turkish Airlines, opening convenient connections between Iceland and the east."

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He also noted that interest in travel between Asia and Iceland has increased in recent years. "With these new connections, we are further strengthening our sales and distribution network," he said.

Istanbul, Türkiye's largest city, is recognized for its rich history and cultural landmarks. It straddles the Bosporus Strait, linking the Black Sea with the Sea of Marmara.

This announcement follows over a year after Icelandair and Turkish Airlines established their codeshare agreement. The partnership aims to reduce total travel time from Asia and the Middle East by aligning flight schedules between both airlines.

Bogason also confirmed plans to deepen this collaboration: "Following the announcement we will also further expand our codeshare partnership with Turkish Airlines... Our schedule to Istanbul will be specially coordinated to align with Turkish Airlines flights."

In related developments, Icelandair is advancing its Nashville service due to heightened demand. Additionally, it is phasing out its Boeing 757-300s as it integrates Airbus A321LR aircraft into its fleet.