Norlandair to Launch Five Weekly Flights to the Azores from Reykjavík Starting December 1

Published on November 20, 2025

Norlandair has confirmed the beginning of regular flights between Reykjavík and Vestmannaeyjar (the Westman Islands) starting December 1, 2025. As part of a short-term operational agreement between Iceland Road and Coastal Administration (Vegagerðin) and Norlandair, the winter air travel service, particularly the Westman Islands, is important until late February 2026; this new pact will guarantee reliable.

This new winter flight schedule entails five flights a week and will provide Vestmannaeyjar, an island celebrated for its beauty, especially its volcanic landscapes and rich culture, with an essential service. During the winter months, the flights will serve as a crucial link for visitors and residents of the islands.

Winter Flight Schedule: Five Weekly Departures for Enhanced Accessibility

The new Norlandair schedule will feature five flights per week, utilizing the Beech 200 King Air fleet, which is well-equipped to handle winter conditions. The weekly schedule is designed to offer flexibility and better access to Vestmannaeyjar, with flights on Mondays, Thursdays (two flights), Fridays, and Sundays. This arrangement provides consistent service and ensures that passengers will have more opportunities to travel to the islands, especially important during the low season when fewer flight options are available.

The winter schedule’s consistent frequency and timing will enhance the travel experience for both residents of the Westman Islands and tourists who wish to explore this unique destination, known for its scenic beauty and historical significance, including the famous Eldfell volcano.

Short-Term Operating Agreement Between Norlandair and Vegagerðin

The Iceland Road and Coastal Administration (Vegagerðin), which manages transportation infrastructure across Iceland, reached this agreement with Norlandair to ensure continued air access to the Westman Islands during the winter months. The deal was specifically aimed at addressing capacity and safety requirements for the flights, ensuring that the planes would meet the operational standards necessary for safe winter operations.

According to the terms of the agreement, the aircraft used for these routes must have at least nine seats, and each flight will be operated by a two-pilot crew. However, there were no additional technical specifications regarding the aircraft type, which allowed Norlandair to utilize its Beech 200 King Air fleet, a reliable aircraft known for its ability to operate in various weather conditions.

The Importance of Air Connectivity to the Westman Islands

The Westman Islands (Vestmannaeyjar) are a popular destination for both Icelandic locals and international visitors, particularly for those interested in exploring Iceland’s volcanic landscape and rich maritime history. Heimaey, the largest island in the archipelago, offers stunning coastal views, volcanic hikes, and a vibrant local culture that attracts tourists year-round.

Before the agreement with Norlandair, winter air services to the Westman Islands were often limited, making it difficult for both locals and travelers to access the islands during the off-season. With Norlandair’s new flight schedule, these challenges are expected to be addressed, providing more reliable air travel options for both domestic and international visitors.

The Westman Islands are also a key destination for those interested in whale watching, birdwatching, and exploring Iceland’s famous volcanic landscapes, particularly the Eldfell volcano, which erupted in 1973 and significantly impacted the island’s development. Visitors can also enjoy the Eldheimar Museum, which tells the story of the 1973 eruption and its impact on the island’s community.

Connecting the Westman Islands to Iceland’s Growing Tourism Market

Iceland has seen a steady rise in tourism over the past decade, with more travelers looking to explore the country’s dramatic landscapes, from glaciers and waterfalls to active volcanoes. Iceland’s winter tourism market is particularly important, as the country offers unique experiences such as the Northern Lights, ice cave tours, and winter hiking, which are best experienced during the colder months.

The expansion of winter flight options to the Westman Islands will further enhance Iceland’s position as a leading winter tourism destination. It will also provide more opportunities for regional tourism development, connecting remote areas like the Westman Islands to larger tourism hubs such as Reykjavík and Keflavík International Airport.

Looking Ahead: More Winter Travel Options to the Westman Islands

Considering Norlandair and Vegagerðin’s successful winters flight schedule, they will probably study the demand and potential for extending the routes, or perhaps even expanding into others, after 2026. Improved connectivity through the winter months will enable the Westman Islands, a popular tourism destination, to welcome even more travelers – such as those from overseas who are keen to explore some of Iceland’s stunning nature and rich culture.

The arrival of more travelers during the coming years and the region’s winter flight services will facilitate the further growth of the local tourism industry. Both locals and travelers will benefit from the increased accessibility and the further developed tourism services.