Passenger reviews highlight Icelandair's unique aspects. Understand their baggage allowance to avoid extra fees. Expect potential flight delays and pack accordingly. Consider upgrading for extra comfort on long flights. Food and beverage options are limited/cost extra, so plan your in-flight meals. Lastly, pre-book seat selection for preferred spots.
Baggage Blues: Understanding Icelandair's Baggage Policies
One of the most frequent topics of discussion in Icelandair reviews is their baggage policy. It's crucial to understand the rules before you arrive at the airport, as exceeding the limits can result in hefty fees. Here's a summary of common experiences:
- Economy Light fares often have no checked baggage allowance. Double-check your fare type! This is a common source of frustration if passengers aren't aware beforehand.
- Weigh your bags at home. Don't rely on guesswork. Many reviewers report strict enforcement of weight limits.
- Consider purchasing baggage allowance in advance. It's often cheaper online than at the airport.
Seat Selection: Pay Up or Take Your Chances
Seat selection on Icelandair, especially on budget fares, isn't always straightforward. Here's what to expect, according to passenger reviews:
- Seat selection often comes at an extra cost. If you want to guarantee a specific seat, be prepared to pay for it.
- If you don't pay for seat selection, you'll likely be assigned a seat at check-in. There's no guarantee you'll be seated with travel companions.
- Some reviewers suggest checking in online as early as possible to improve your chances of getting a better seat if you're not paying extra.
In-Flight Entertainment: A Mixed Bag
The in-flight entertainment experience on Icelandair can vary depending on the aircraft and route. Here’s a quick overview based on reviews:
- Some planes have personal entertainment screens; others don't. Be prepared to bring your own entertainment, such as books or downloaded movies.
- Even with screens, the selection may be limited. Don't expect a massive library of options.
- Wi-Fi is often available for purchase. However, reviews suggest that the quality and reliability can vary.
Food and Drink: Plan Ahead
While Icelandair offers food and beverage options, many passengers recommend planning ahead, especially on longer flights. Here's why:
- Food and drinks are generally available for purchase. Unless you have a specific fare that includes meals, expect to pay for your food and beverages.
- Prices can be relatively high. Bringing your own snacks and drinks can save you money.
- Meal options may be limited, especially for dietary restrictions. If you have specific needs, it's best to bring your own food.
Customer Service: Inconsistent Experiences
Customer service is a recurring theme in Icelandair reviews, with experiences ranging from excellent to frustrating. Here's a summary:
- Experiences can vary widely. Some passengers praise the helpfulness of Icelandair staff, while others report difficulties resolving issues.
- Be prepared for potential delays or cancellations. Like any airline, Icelandair can be subject to disruptions, so it's wise to have a backup plan.
- Communication can sometimes be challenging. Some reviewers report difficulties getting timely and accurate information from customer service representatives.
A Summary of Key Considerations: A Passenger Review Snapshot
To give you a clearer picture, here's a table summarizing the key considerations mentioned in passenger reviews:
| Aspect | Common Passenger Experiences | Recommendations |
|---|
| Baggage | Economy Light often excludes checked baggage; strict weight limits; fees can be high. | Check your fare details; weigh baggage at home; purchase allowance in advance. |
| Seat Selection | Typically requires an extra fee; assignments at check-in can be unpredictable. | Consider paying for preferred seats; check in early if you don't want to pay. |
| In-Flight Entertainment | Availability of screens varies; limited selection; Wi-Fi quality can be inconsistent. | Bring your own entertainment; manage expectations regarding Wi-Fi. |
| Food & Drink | Available for purchase, but can be expensive; limited meal options. | Bring your own snacks and drinks; plan for dietary restrictions. |
| Customer Service | Inconsistent experiences; potential for delays or cancellations; communication challenges. | Be prepared for potential disruptions; manage expectations regarding responsiveness. |
Ultimately: Weighing the Pros and Cons
Icelandair can be a great option for traveling to Iceland and beyond, especially if you're looking for a competitively priced flight. However, it's crucial to go in with your eyes open. By understanding the potential pitfalls highlighted in passenger reviews, you can prepare accordingly and have a smoother, more enjoyable Icelandair experience. Pay close attention to the baggage allowance, seat selection process, and potential onboard amenities so you can make informed choices. By doing your homework and managing your expectations, your trip with Icelandair can be a memorable one for all the right reasons.
