Icelandic flag carrier Icelandair has signed a codesharing agreement with the state-owned Chinese airline Air China. This is intended to provide Iceland with greater air connectivity in East Asia, and allow Chinese tourists easier access to flights to Iceland. It is unknown when the agreement will come into force, or which specific services will be effected.
Why has the Agreement Been Made?
Air China’s new route from Beijing Capital International Airport (PEK) to Keflavik International Airport (KEF), via Copenhagen Airport (CPH) is the only route flown by a single carrier currently connecting Iceland to East Asia.
Air China’s President, Qu Guangji, has said that,
“The codesharing agreement between Air China and Icelandair will provide passengers of both countries with more convenient travel options, further enhancing the connectivity between the two countries’ aviation networks.”
The deal forms part of ongoing efforts by Icelandair to increase its presence in international markets.
The airline’s CEO, Bogi Nils Bogason, said that,
“The partnership with Air China is an important step in our ongoing efforts to strengthen our route network and expand our network of partner airlines.”
The agreement was signed at Icelandair’s KEF hub.
What Does this Mean for Passengers?
Codesharing refers to an agreement between two or more airlines not to compete with one another on certain routes.
Air China’s only current route to or from Iceland is its route from PEK via CPH, which was first flown Monday Oct. 26, 2026.
Icelandair currently flies between KEF and CPH, as well as to a network of destinations across Europe and North America.
The airlines have however indicated that this agreement will also allow for passengers to travel on both airlines using a single ticket, with their luggage transported automatically to their final destination airport.
It is unknown when this agreement will come into force, but it is a clear sign of Air China’s commitment to its newest long haul route.
Have you flown on Icelandair? Do you think a codeshare agreement with Air China will benefit the airline? Let us know what you think in the comments.
