Icelandair has launched a new direct service between Reykjavík and Istanbul, Turkey, operating 2–3 weekly flights with a journey time of approximately five hours and 30 minutes.
The route strengthens Icelandair’s network and enhances connectivity to Asia and the Middle East through an expanded partnership with Turkish Airlines.
The inaugural flight marked a milestone in the cooperation between the two carriers. Icelandair and Turkish Airlines first established a codeshare agreement in summer 2023, and the new service will now allow passengers seamless access to Turkish Airlines’ extensive network across Asia and the Middle East. The connection provides shorter travel times and broader options for both leisure and business travelers.
Expanded Connectivity Through Istanbul
Istanbul, Türkiye’s largest city, serves as a major hub linking Europe and Asia. With this new route, Icelandair passengers can now connect more easily to destinations across the East while enjoying access to the cultural and historical attractions of Istanbul itself, including the Grand Bazaar and iconic landmarks spread across both continents.
“After a long-time planning, we are excited to see the launch of our Istanbul service and to be deepening our collaboration with Turkish Airlines,” said Bogi Nils Bogason, President & CEO of Icelandair. “This route opens up convenient new travel corridors between Iceland and the East, responding to the growing demand for travel between Asia and Iceland. Strengthening our route network and partnerships is central to our mission of connecting customers to more destinations and supporting tourism and trade in Iceland.”
Strategic Partnership with Turkish Airlines
Turkish Airlines is recognized as the world’s leading carrier by the number of countries served, making its partnership with Icelandair a critical step in expanding access to international destinations. Through the codeshare, passengers booking with either airline can enjoy streamlined itineraries and coordinated services, particularly beneficial for those traveling to or from Asia and the Middle East.
The collaboration also supports Iceland’s tourism sector, which continues to benefit from increasing interest among Asian travelers. By linking Reykjavík with Istanbul, Icelandair positions itself to attract more visitors to Iceland while offering Icelandic passengers new routes for business and leisure travel.
The direct service not only adds a new destination to Icelandair’s schedule but also contributes to the broader goal of boosting Iceland’s role as a connecting hub between Europe and North America. By working closely with Turkish Airlines, Icelandair ensures that travelers have greater choice and convenience in accessing global markets.
The launch reflects Icelandair’s ongoing strategy to diversify its network and strengthen partnerships that deliver long-term value. The Reykjavík–Istanbul route offers an important bridge between Iceland and the East, aligning with rising demand for efficient and reliable air connections across regions.
