Direct Flights from China to Iceland Could Increase Tourism Revenues

2026-02-07 - 13:17

Chinese airline Air China is exploring the possibility of launching direct flights to Iceland, with services potentially starting as early as this spring. While the plan has yet to receive final approval, the airline is actively making preparations to establish the route. What's The Story? Air China is planning direct flights connecting China and Iceland Scheduled services could begin as early as spring 2026 Final approval is still pending, but preparations are actively underway If launched, the route could boost Iceland’s tourism export revenues by several billion The airline is focusing on safety and operational readiness before starting flights The connection aims to strengthen travel and business links between China and Iceland Vigdís Finnbogadóttir at the Great Wall of China. Photo: Forseti.is. If the flights go ahead, the new connection is expected to bring a significant boost to Iceland’s tourism sector. As reported by Morgunblaðið, the influx of visitors could increase the industry revenues by several billion. This would mark a major step in strengthening links between China and Iceland, two countries that have seen growing interest in travel and business opportunities in recent years. Air China has not confirmed an exact timetable for the flights. However, the discussions are progressing positively, and the travel services might start as early as this spring. Tourism experts say that direct flights from China could make Iceland a more accessible destination for Asian tourists, potentially reshaping the country’s visitor demographics. The airline has emphasised that safety and operational readiness are key priorities as it moves closer to securing approval. For Iceland, the addition of a direct Chinese route could provide a timely boost for the industry, especially during peak travel seasons.