Iceland’s national carrier is streamlining its route network and has announced that from 16 March, the networks and operations of Icelandair and Air Iceland Connect will be integrated into one stronger network.
All sales and marketing efforts will be joined under the Icelandair brand, with a full range of products and services accessible for both domestic and international markets on the Icelandair website. The carrier says the integration will simplify travel for international tourists planning to explore Iceland once Covid-related travel restrictions are lifted.
One strong brand
According to the carrier, other objectives for the integration are to ensure a sustainable future for domestic operations in Iceland and the West Nordic region and strengthening and simplifying the company’s operations with one strong brand.
A simplified booking process and a unified distribution system will allow Icelandair to focus on an improved and consistent customer experience across its route network.
Domestic and regional flights will be operated on Icelandair’s FI flight numbers once the integration is complete but the companies’ operating licenses are going to remain separate. Icelandair is currently reviewing the product range and services that will be offered on domestic flights and new products and services will be introduced in the spring.
“The integration of Icelandair and Air Iceland Connect is an important step that will contribute to a stronger and more streamlined airline and improved air transport across our domestic and international route network,” Bogi Nils Bogason, CEO of Icelandair commented. “This is a complex project that we will take in steps. That’s why we put great emphasis on clear communication with customers and open dialogue with key stakeholders around Iceland about how we will ensure the development of domestic flights with the value and experience of our customers in mind.
“In the long run, as our domestic flights become more visible in Icelandair’s booking engines we hope to see our customers from Europe and North America connecting to domestic destinations across our homeland.”
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