Keflavik International Airport (KEF) - Reykjavik's Gateway
All international flights to Reykjavik arrive at Keflavik International Airport (KEF), Iceland's main international airport located about 50 km southwest of Reykjavik city center. The airport serves as the primary hub for Icelandair and Play Airlines, offering convenient connections between North America and Europe.
Keflavik International Airport (KEF)
KEF
Location: 50 km southwest of Reykjavik city center
Best for: Transatlantic travel, Iceland stopovers, Northern Lights trips
Transport: Flybus shuttle, rental cars, taxis, private transfers
Airlines: Icelandair, Play Airlines, Delta, United, WOW Air (formerly)
Features: Duty-free shopping, Blue Lagoon transfers, car rental center
Getting from Keflavik Airport to Reykjavik
- Flybus Airport Shuttle: Most popular option, takes 45-60 minutes to Reykjavik BSÍ bus terminal
- Rental Cars: Available at airport, recommended for exploring Iceland's Ring Road
- Taxis: Expensive but convenient, approximately 45-minute drive to city center
- Private Transfers: Pre-booked services for direct hotel drop-off
- Public Buses: Limited service, not recommended for airport transfers
- Blue Lagoon Transfer: Many shuttles stop at Blue Lagoon before continuing to Reykjavik
Airlines Serving Reykjavik (KEF Airport)
Reykjavik's Keflavik International Airport is served by several major airlines offering direct flights from North America and Europe, making Iceland easily accessible from around the world.
Major International Airlines to Iceland
- Icelandair - Flag carrier with extensive North American and European network
- Play Airlines - Low-cost Icelandic carrier with transatlantic routes
- Delta Air Lines - Seasonal direct flights from New York and Boston
- United Airlines - Seasonal direct flights from Chicago and Washington DC
- American Airlines - Seasonal direct flights from Philadelphia
- British Airways - Direct flights from London
- Lufthansa - Direct flights from Frankfurt
- KLM - Direct flights from Amsterdam
- Scandinavian Airlines (SAS) - Direct flights from Copenhagen and Stockholm
- Norwegian Air Shuttle - Direct flights from various European cities
Direct Flight Routes from North America
- New York (JFK/EWR) to Reykjavik - 5-6 hours
- Boston to Reykjavik - 5 hours
- Chicago to Reykjavik - 6 hours
- Seattle to Reykjavik - 7 hours
- Toronto to Reykjavik - 5 hours
- Washington DC to Reykjavik - 6 hours
- Denver to Reykjavik - 7 hours
Frequently Asked Questions About Reykjavik Flights
Which airport do you fly into for Reykjavik?
All international flights to Reykjavik arrive at Keflavik International Airport (KEF), located about 50 km from Reykjavik city center. Reykjavik Airport (RKV) only handles domestic flights and flights to Greenland and Faroe Islands.
What is the cheapest month to fly to Reykjavik?
January and February typically offer the lowest airfares to Reykjavik, with November and March also being budget-friendly months. Summer months (June-August) are the most expensive due to peak tourist season.
How far in advance should I book flights to Iceland?
For summer travel, book 3-6 months in advance. For winter Northern Lights season, book 2-4 months ahead. Set price alerts and be flexible with your travel dates for the best deals.
Which airlines fly direct to Reykjavik from the US?
Icelandair and Play Airlines offer direct flights from multiple US cities including New York, Boston, Chicago, Seattle, and Washington DC. Delta and United also offer seasonal direct flights from various US hubs.
What is the best way to get from Keflavik Airport to Reykjavik?
The Flybus airport shuttle is the most popular and convenient option, taking 45-60 minutes to reach Reykjavik. Rental cars, taxis, and private transfers are also available. Book transfers in advance during peak season.
Can I do a stopover in Iceland on my way to Europe?
Yes! Icelandair offers a free stopover program allowing you to stay in Iceland for up to 7 days at no additional airfare cost when traveling between North America and Europe.
What is the flight time from New York to Reykjavik?
The flight from New York to Reykjavik takes approximately 5-6 hours depending on wind conditions.
Do I need a visa to visit Iceland?
US, Canadian, UK, and EU citizens do not need a visa for tourist visits up to 90 days. Always check current entry requirements based on your nationality before traveling.
What should I pack for a trip to Iceland?
Pack layers, waterproof jacket and pants, warm base layers, sturdy waterproof shoes, swimsuit (for geothermal pools), and camera equipment. Don't forget a power adapter for European outlets.
Is Iceland expensive to visit?
Iceland can be expensive, particularly for dining out and alcohol. However, you can save money by booking accommodation in advance, cooking your own meals, and focusing on free natural attractions.