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Looking for the best airlines to fly to Iceland? Here’s your guide to Icelandair’s Saga Class, covering everything from booking your ticket to enjoying the in-flight perks.
If you’re planning your next adventure across the Atlantic, choosing the right airline can make all the difference. As a seasoned traveler who’s experienced the highs and lows of various airlines, I find that flying with Icelandair business class stands out for several reasons.
Icelandair’s business class, known for its exceptional service and comfort, positions itself uniquely among the best airlines in Europe. Having flown multiple routes with them, I’ve seen firsthand how their service quality and attention to detail create a memorable journey. Whether you’re flying from the US or exploring options within Europe, Icelandair offers a top-notch experience.
This guide will cover everything from the types of aircraft in the Icelandair fleet to specific business class features. We’ll explore what sets Icelandair apart from other carriers and discuss if their new business class upgrades live up to the hype. Let’s get started!
My #1 tip to find cheap Icelandair Business Class tickets
Looking for a steal on Icelandair Saga Premium business class tickets? Before jumping into the article, I first wanted to give you this insider tip to find cheap airfare on business class flights.
For years, I’ve been using this site called Going (formerly Scott’s Cheap Flights), which sends you alerts on airline deals, discounts, and mistake fares. It’s a total game-changer, saving me $10,000+ on flights each year.
Their $49/year premium version is well worth it- just one discounted flight pays for the whole thing. I recommend trying the free trial and using my special discount code JON20 to save 20%!
And if you’re into business/first class, you’ll want to sign up for their Elite version. Last year, this service saved me $2,750 on a first class flight and $1,500 on a business class flight. At just $199 year year, trust me, it’s a small price for massive savings.
Overview of Icelandair
Icelandair is a fantastic option if you’re looking for flights to Europe from the US. Based out of Keflavík International Airport, their location is perfectly suited for those mid-journey stops across the Atlantic—something I’ve found incredibly convenient.
Icelandair operates a robust fleet of 43 aircraft. This includes Boeing 757s and 767s. They’ve recently expanded their horizon by ordering 13 state-of-the-art A321XLRs.
When you fly Saga Class, Icelandair’s equivalent to business class, you’re signing up for comfort. I’ve found the service to be excellent, and the extra space is a game changer on longer flights.
Their Saga Club frequent-flyer program is also a nice perk, letting you rack up points with Icelandair or partners like Alaska Airlines and JetBlue. These points can be redeemed for travel or purchases from the Saga Shop onboard
Overall, Icelandair provides a solid, dependable service, with an excellent business class product. It’s one of the reasons they keep topping my list of the best airlines to fly to Europe.
Icelandair business class fleet: A detailed comparison
On my travels with Icelandair, I’ve had the chance to fly on their 757s, 767s, and the newer 737 MAX. Let’s take a look at the difference in business class products across their fleet.
Boeing 757-200 & 757-300
Flying to the US West Coast or Canada on Icelandair often means boarding their 757s. In Saga Class, the setup is cozy. You’ll find five or six rows of 2×2 recliner seats.
Each seat gives you about 40 inches of pitch. This is more roomy than many first-class seats I’ve encountered domestically in the US or Canada. These seats don’t lie flat, but the extra recline and legroom make a notable difference. It’s a solid choice if you value space and some added comforts like power ports and USB chargers right at your seat.
Boeing 767-300ER
The 767s are used for busier routes, and the Saga Class here is in a 2-1-2 layout. While you don’t get a lie-flat bed, the recliner setup is comfortable enough for the transatlantic jumps to Europe or the US East Coast.
The service feels more aligned with what you might expect in a premium economy section, but with a personal touch and better amenities.
Boeing 737 MAX
Then there’s the 737 MAX. On this newer plane, the business class is surprisingly pleasant for intra-European flights.
Eight seats are arranged in a 2-2 layout, offering plenty of elbow room and a nice 40-inch pitch. There is excellent in-flight entertainment and free Wi-Fi. This setup is one of the best European business class products, without a doubt.
It’s perfect for shorter flights where you don’t necessarily need a flat bed but still appreciate the extra comfort.
Baggage allowance with Icelandair business class
When flying Saga Class with Icelandair, the luggage allowance is excellent. Each passenger can check two bags, each up to 70 lbs (32 kg). For carry-on, you’re allowed one bag and one personal item. The carry-on can be up to 22 lbs (10 kg). This is pretty standard but sufficient for whatever essentials you need to keep close.
Icelandair business class airport experience
Flying out of Keflavík with Icelandair Saga Class, I always appreciate the priority check-in. It’s a real game changer. Typically, the lines are long, but with Saga Premium, you get your own lane. This speeds things up significantly, especially during peak travel times.
Fast-tracking through security means less hassle and more time to relax before the flight. Just a heads-up, though—this fast-track feature is mainly at their hub in Iceland, so check ahead for other airports.
The Saga Lounge at Keflavík is where you’ll want to spend your pre-flight hours. It’s equipped with strong Wi-Fi, plenty of food, and comfy places to sit. The design is quintessentially Nordic – clean and functional yet warm. The view is breathtaking on a clear day, stretching all the way to Snæfellsjökull glacier.
Boarding for Saga Class passengers is streamlined and hassle-free. Being a premium traveler, you’ll often board either first or with any other priority boarding groups.
In-flight comfort & amenities on Icelandair business class
Flying Icelandair’s Saga Class has consistently provided me with comfort and convenience, from the seats to the amenities. Let me break down what you can expect during your flight.
Seat design
On Icelandair, whether you’re aboard a 757, 767, or the 737 MAX, the seating feels thoughtfully designed. In Saga Premium, you’ll be seated in a 2×2 configuration, except on the 767s, where it’s 2x1x2. Each seat offers a generous 40 inches of legroom and 20.5 inches of seat width. Though the seats don’t lie flat, the recline is ample for relaxing or catching some sleep on a long flight.
In-flight entertainment
Each seat is fitted with a back screen. I’ve found their selection to be quite expansive, offering everything from the latest blockbusters to popular TV shows and a variety of music options. There are plenty of videos about Iceland, which I’d highly recommend. In my opinion, it’s one of the most beautiful places to visit in Europe. Saga Class passengers receive a pair of noise-canceling headphones.
Amenity kit
The amenity kits in Saga Class include Icelandic skincare products, which are really soothing, especially on long flights. You’ll find all the essentials like a dental kit, socks, an eye mask, and earplugs.
Connectivity
Saga Premium passengers benefit from complimentary internet access that’s notably fast and reliable. I’ve managed to stay on top of my emails and even stream videos without interruption, a stark contrast to the often spotty service you might find on other airlines.
As one of the best airlines to fly to Iceland, I’ve always felt that Icelandair strikes a good balance between comfort and functionality.
On-board dining in Icelandair business class
When flying Saga Premium with Icelandair, the food is always delicious. There’s a wide range of choices, including an extensive wine list.
Food
During flights to and from North America, the three-course meal service is a highlight. It starts with an appetizer, followed by a main dish, and finishes off with a dessert. Snacks and Icelandic chocolate are available throughout the flight.
Beverages
Throughout the flight, you can enjoy a selection of beverages, including fine wines, spirits, and beers. Notably, Icelandair offers local Icelandic brands, such as Gull beer, Reykjavik Distillery gin, and Reyka vodka. For something a bit different, I’d recommend trying the espresso martini.
Tips for booking Icelandair business class flights
Here are some tips to help you find cheap business class flights to Iceland and enjoy a seamless booking experience:
- Check partner airlines: Although Icelandair isn’t part of a major alliance, it has partnerships with airlines like Alaska Airlines and JetBlue. You can earn miles on these carriers when you fly with Icelandair. Remember, you can only book award flights through Alaska Airlines Mileage Plan.
- Subscribe to Cheap Flight Alerts: Again, if you want to find the best possible deals on business class airfare, I highly recommend signing up for Scott’s Cheap Flights (Going.com). While the free version is great for finding discounted economy flights, the Elite version is what you’ll need to find cheap business and first class deals.
- Book early: For the best rates and seat availability in Saga Class, it’s wise to book your tickets as early as possible. Early bookings often come with more flexibility and lower prices.
- Check Icelandair’s offers: Visit Icelandair’s website frequently. They sometimes run special promotions for flights, including business class upgrades which are not to be missed.
- Consider shoulder season: Traveling during the shoulder season can lead to cheap business class flights to Iceland. This generally means the spring (April to June) and autumn (September to November). Icelandair’s fares vary seasonally, so this can significantly affect your travel budget.
Pros & cons of Icelandair business class
Exploring the pros and cons of Icelandair’s Saga Class can help you decide if it’s the right choice for your travels. Here’s a straightforward look at what stands out, both positively and negatively.
Pros
- Exceptional service: Staff in Saga Class are famous for their attentiveness and Icelandic hospitality.
- Comfort and amenities: With more legroom, wider seats, and enhanced privacy, Saga Class offers a significant comfort upgrade over economy. The 737 MAX aircraft offers one of the best intra-European business class seats out of any airline.
- Additional baggage allowance: Passengers can have two checked bags, which is ideal for longer trips.
- Access to lounges: Enjoy the comfort of exclusive amazing airport lounges before your flight. The Saga Lounge at Keflavík is a fantastic space.
Cons
- No lie-flat beds: Unlike many other airlines that fly to Europe, Saga Class does not offer lie-flat beds. This can be a drawback on longer flights. I’d say that the product is more comparable to premium economy.
- Limited global network: As Icelandair is not part of a major global alliance, options for earning and spending miles might be restricted compared to other airlines.
- Inconsistent fast track access: Fast track security access is not guaranteed at all airports, primarily outside of Iceland.
For those longer flights where I know I want to stretch out and maybe catch a good night’s sleep, I would lean towards an airline like Delta or Lufthansa. They not only offer lie-flat beds but also have more extensive frequent flyer programs as part of major global alliances. This can make a big difference, especially if you’re looking to maximize travel rewards.
For a straightforward, comfortable trip with great service, Icelandair is a fantastic option. But if you’re after the full luxury of a lie-flat bed and more mileage perks, looking at other carriers might be the way to go.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs) about Icelandair business class
Are you still curious about which airline is the best to fly to Iceland? Here are some popular questions (and answers) I get that will help decide whether Icelandair business class is the right option for you.
Is business class on Icelandair worth it?
Yes, I’d say so. Icelandair’s Saga Class offers spacious seating, excellent in-flight dining, and additional perks like extra baggage and lounge access.
Does Icelandair’s business class seats lie flat?
No, the business class seats on Icelandair do not lie flat. They are more akin to premium economy seats found on other international flights. The seats offer an ample recline but not a fully flat experience.
Does Icelandair serve alcohol?
Yes, Icelandair serves alcohol. Passengers can enjoy a range of beverages, including champagne, beer, wine, and spirits. They feature some nice local options like Reykjavik Distillery gin and Reyka vodka.
Is Icelandair a budget airline?
Icelandair is not considered a budget airline. It provides a full-service experience with various classes of service, including a business class. While it may offer competitive pricing, especially for transatlantic flights, it maintains a standard of service that aligns more closely with traditional carriers than budget airlines.
