I enjoy traveling on different airlines to see what each has to offer. I decided to review each airline that I have the pleasure of riding. My first review is my journey on IcelandAir’s Boeing 757- 200 series from Keflavík International Airport (KEF) to New York John F. Kennedy Airport (JFK).
Check In:
Checking in process is efficient. You enter the airport and there are several kiosk located from wall to wall. When checking in via kiosk, you are able to print out a tag for your checked bag. After you check in, you proceed to the baggage drop off line. The line is relatively quick. The agent will weigh your bag and point you to your way.
If you are like me who only fly standby, you proceed to the bag drop off line. You will not be able to check in via kiosk.
If you are flying Saga, AKA business class, there is a separate line for you.
Terminal Gates:
There are tons of food and shops located towards the Security and Terminal. I spent my last few krónas purchasing drinks and souvenirs.
Security:
Security is quick and easy however, if you are not from the EU, you must go through another security line. The 2nd security line, AKA immigration line will open about an hour before your flight.
Boarding the plane:
There are no zones or organized way to board the plane. Passengers line up in a semi- single file line to enter the plane. Once you enter the plane, you are greeted by a lovely flight attendant who hands you a mini Icelandic Glacier water bottle.
Cabin:
I sat in the Economy cabin which offered more leg room than most airlines that I’ve been on. The seats were surprisingly comfortable. I was able to drift off to sleep a few times during the 5.5 hour flight. The cabin is 3X3 but if you’re seated in the Economy Comfort, the middle seat is block off for a shared table.
Entertainment:
The safety video was entertaining. IcelandAir took advantage of Iceland’s beautiful nature for their safety video. You can watch the video below:
As for entertainment, IcelandAir offers a handful of free movies, TV shows, and music. It is not as ample as most American airlines but it will keep you entertained during the short flight. Also, to promote Iceland, you must view all their ads before you can proceed to the entertainment.
Service:
IcelandAir offers 2 beverage service during the flight. Beverages are free (some destinations, you will have to pay a small fee). IcelandAir encourages their passengers to keep their cups to reuse for the next beverage service however, they are not enforced.
Meals in Economy class are all buy on board. I purchased 3 mini sliders (2cm X 2cm) for 1500kr, about $12USD. A bit too steep for me but the sliders were actually pretty decent. Cards, Kronas, and Euros are excepted for purchases. Young travellers will receive a meal on the house. Economy Comfort and Saga class also receive complimentary meals.
Flight Attendants:
The flight attendants were all polite, friendly, and well groomed. IcelandAir also allows their crews to wear open toed shoes.
Notes:
Iceland went through a harsh recession. To help their economy, IcelandAir started offering a 7 day stopover from USA to Europe. If you fly from the States to any European country, you can stopover in Iceland for 7 days (or less) for absolutely free! I highly recommend taking IcelandAir simply for this!
Overall: 4/5 Stars
The short journey was comfortable. The stews were friendly and attentive. IcelandAir loses a star for no meals for an international flight.
The Part Time Traveler 