A new Icelandic airline, Niceair, is preparing to launch direct flights from the UK to Akureyri, Iceland’s second city and gateway to the north and east of the country.
Details remain sketchy, but UK services from ‘at least’ one UK airport are due to start in June. Full route details are expected next month.
The start-up, full service airline is being represented in the UK by former Superbreak Director of Product Chris Hagan who will work with the trade to develop short break and longer-duration holidays.
“I am massively excited to be part of the launch team for this new carrier,” Hagan said. “I know first-hand having spent a huge amount of time in North Iceland just how fantastic the tourism offering is.
“Previous customer feedback was universally positive and I look forward to these new routes allowing more guests to experience what is a unique destination.”
Chris Hagan spent several years in Iceland
Mr Hagan declined to expand on the airline’s plans, with schedules still being finalised.
“All we can say at this stage is we will be launching flights in June to at least one UK airport with more to follow in time for the key UK-Iceland winter season,,” he said.
Niceair will operate a 150-seat A319 aircraft which has been leased from ‘an established European carrier’.
It will also operate from Akureyri to Denmark and Spain.
Akureyri is located at the end of Iceland’s longest fjord, 60 miles south of the Arctic Circle.
Niceair Managing Director Thorvaldur Ludvik Sigurjonsson said the creation of the airline follows two years of ‘in-depth analysis’.
“Connecting North Iceland to key European gateways will open opportunities not just for inbound tourism to the region but also provide vital services to the local population and businesses here,” he said.
“I am delighted that Chris is working with us on this project. His experience both within the wider industry and also here will benefit the project hugely.”
