LOW FARE CARRIER BRINGS RENAISSANCE TO ICELAND

New airline Iceland Express has triggered a ‘renaissance’ of Iceland, after introducing the lowest fares travellers have ever experienced to Europe’s northern most country. Whilst destinations worldwide are experiencing a downturn in tourism, neither SARS nor the threat of terrorism seems to affect Iceland’s attraction, as figures show that it’s more popular than ever before. Iceland enjoyed a 35% surge in international travel in April and an increase of 18% in March compared to last year.

Whilst Iceland is a renowned sanctuary for the rich and famous, earning Reykjavik the title ‘European Capital of Cool’, it has until recently remained out of reach to many due to the sky high cost implications of flag carrier Icelandair. Iceland Express’s emergence however has encouraged Icelandair to lower their prices, making the country more accessible than ever before.

Low fare airlines are changing the face of Europe, by opening up many of its hidden secrets and making these lesser known countries fashionable. Not only do they provide cost effective travel, these ‘cheap but chic’ carriers work effectively to educate us, broadening our awareness of different cultures and new business opportunities. Iceland’s first low fare airline has increased the potential for overseas business as business travellers can now afford to travel more frequently. Already, trade departments in Iceland have reported a rise in interest from exporters keen to maximise the benefits of its popularity.  

Olafur Haukson, Marketing Manager for Iceland Express commented. “We are delighted about the speed with which Iceland Express has increased travel to Iceland, the demand for our service has been very encouraging. We are also pleased to announce a healthy balance of customers using Iceland Express for business travel.”

Iceland Express is the first low fare airline to service the London – Reykjavik route since Go stopped in 2001. Their success clearly shows peoples willingness to travel when the price is right. Over twelve thousand passengers have passed through their doors bringing their load factor to 70% and rising.

For further information please contact:

Brett Gregory-Peake, Director, Frank & Earnest Communications, 020 7386 0099
Editors Notes:

Return Tickets from London and Copenhagen start at just £108 including taxes and can be bought online at IcelandExpress.com. Bookings can also be made direct through the Iceland Express UK sales office or through hundreds of travel agents both in the UK and on the continent. Tickets are booked on a one-way basis, so that customers can benefit from the lowest fares possible. Flights from London to Reykjavik take just under three hours, departing Reykjavik at midday and returning via London Stansted at 19.50.

The Iceland Express call centre is open 7 days per week, from 08.00 - 22.00.

Passenger Reservations: 0870 8500 737
Trade Enquiries: 0870 8501 007