Uncovering the Truth: Icelandair's Policy on Complimentary Meals during International Flights

When planning an international flight, one of the many things that passengers consider is the in-flight meals. After all, no one wants to travel long distances on an empty stomach. For those flying with Icelandair, a popular European airline, a common question arises: “Does Icelandair serve free food on international flights?” This query may seem simple, but the answer can make a big difference in the overall travel experience. In this article, we will explore the dining options offered by Icelandair on their international flights and provide insights into what passengers can expect from their in-flight meals. So let’s dig in and find out if Icelandair flies high when it comes to onboard cuisine.

Icelandair is a popular airline known for its affordable fares and extensive route network. If you are planning to travel on an international flight with Icelandair, one of the questions that may come to mind is whether or not the airline provides free food onboard. In this article, we will delve deeper into this topic and provide you with all the information you need to know about Icelandair’s food offerings on international flights.

The Importance of Food on International Flights

Food plays a crucial role in making long-haul international flights more comfortable and enjoyable. Travelling for extended periods can be exhausting and having a good meal on board can make all the difference. Airline food not only satisfies hunger but also provides a sense of comfort and familiarity in an otherwise unfamiliar environment. Moreover, for some passengers, in-flight meals may be their only opportunity to have a proper meal during their journey. This makes the quality and availability of food on international flights an important factor when choosing an airline.

Icelandair’s Food Policy

Icelandair has a unique approach when it comes to in-flight meals. Unlike other airlines that provide complimentary meals on all their flights, Icelandair follows a “pay as you go” concept for most of its flights, including international routes. This means that the cost of your ticket does not include any complimentary meals or drinks.

However, Icelandair does offer some exceptions to this policy. For example, if you are flying Business Class or Saga Premium Class (the airline’s version of First Class), then you will have access to complimentary meals throughout your journey. Additionally, passengers flying on routes between North America and Europe are provided one complimentary hot meal with non-alcoholic beverages included.

The Saga Class Experience

As mentioned earlier, passengers travelling in Saga Class can enjoy complimentary meals throughout their journey. This includes a three-course meal on most routes, along with complimentary snacks and beverages. The airline has an excellent menu selection that includes both international and Icelandic dishes, prepared using fresh local ingredients. Passengers can also enjoy a wide range of alcoholic beverages, including Icelandic beers and spirits.

The Economy Class Experience

For those travelling in Economy Class, Icelandair offers a buy-on-board concept. This means that you can purchase snacks and drinks from the airline’s selection at any time during your flight. The menu includes a variety of hot and cold meals, snacks, and alcoholic beverages at reasonable prices. Icelandair also offers a pre-order meal service where passengers can order their meals in advance for more convenience.

Icelandic Cuisine on Board

One of the unique aspects of flying with Icelandair is the opportunity to try authentic Icelandic cuisine on board. The airline partners with local restaurants and suppliers to deliver an array of traditional dishes such as smoked salmon, lamb, and skyr (a type of yogurt). This not only adds to the overall experience but also promotes the country’s culture and heritage.

Dietary Restrictions and Special Meals

Icelandair understands that passengers may have specific dietary restrictions or preferences. As such, the airline offers a range of special meals that cater to various dietary requirements such as vegetarian, vegan, gluten-free, etc. Passengers need to request these meals at least 24 hours before their flight departure through the airline’s website or by contacting their customer service team.

Bringing Your Own Food on Board

Passengers are allowed to bring their own food on board an Icelandair flight, with a few exceptions. Foods with strong odors or those that require heating or refrigeration are not permitted for safety reasons. It is recommended to pack non-perishable items such as sandwiches, fruits, or nuts for snacking during the flight.

To sum it up, Icelandair does not offer free meals on its international flights unless you are flying Business Class, Saga Premium Class, or on specific routes. However, the airline’s food policy gives passengers the flexibility to choose and pay for meals and drinks they desire. With a wide variety of Icelandic and international cuisine options to choose from, Icelandair ensures that its passengers have a pleasant dining experience while flying. Don’t forget to pre-order your meal or bring along some snacks if you are travelling in Economy Class to make your journey even more enjoyable. Happy flying!

Overview of Icelandair’s Food Options for International Flights

Icelandair is known for its affordable flights to and from Iceland, as well as its connections to other popular destinations. But one question that often comes up for travelers is, “Does Icelandair serve free food on international flights?”

The answer is yes, but with some important details to note. In this article, we’ll delve into everything you need to know about Icelandair’s food options for international flights. From complimentary meals to special dietary accommodations, we’ve got you covered.

The Standard Economy Class Food Options

For all of its international flights, Icelandair provides complimentary meal service for its economy class passengers. This includes a hot main dish along with salad, bread, dessert, and a selection of beverages. The menu varies depending on the route and time of day, but Icelandair aims to provide a mix of traditional Icelandic cuisine and international favorites.

Some examples of main dishes you may find on your flight include lamb stew with root vegetables or fish fillet with creamy dill sauce. Vegetarian options are also available such as a quinoa and roasted vegetable salad or cheese tortellini in tomato basil sauce.

It’s worth noting that the complimentary meal service only covers one main dish. Additional items from the menu can be purchased at an extra cost. However, there is usually a good variety of options provided in the complimentary meal that should satisfy most appetites.

Premium Economy Class Food Options

If you opt for a premium economy class ticket on Icelandair, you can expect an upgraded dining experience. Along with a welcome drink and pre-departure snack, premium economy passengers receive a three-course meal served on linen tablecloths with real cutlery.

The menu for premium economy features more gourmet options such as rack of lamb or salmon fillet with pesto butter sauce. Passengers can also enjoy a complimentary selection of beer and wine.

Business Class Food Options

For the ultimate luxurious travel experience, Icelandair’s business class offers a high-end dining service. In addition to the amenities provided in premium economy, business class passengers are also served a pre-departure champagne cocktail and can choose from an extensive à la carte menu.

Business class meals are made with high-quality ingredients and expertly prepared by renowned Icelandic chefs. The menu features both Icelandic specialties and global cuisine options, making it easy to find something that suits your taste buds.

Special Dietary Accommodations

Icelandair understands that not all passengers have the same dietary needs, which is why they offer special meal options for those with allergies or specific dietary preferences. Allergen-free, vegetarian, vegan, kosher, halal, and gluten-free meals are available to be requested at least 48 hours before your flight departure.

Passengers with special dietary needs can rest assured that their meals on Icelandair will be prepared safely and with their needs in mind. You can specify your request when booking your flight or by contacting Icelandair’s customer service team directly.

In-Flight Snacks and Beverages

In addition to the complimentary meal service, Icelandair also offers an array of snacks and beverages available for purchase during your flight. These include sandwiches, wraps, salads, candy bars, chips, fruit cups, and more. Non-alcoholic beverages are also available for purchase as well as a variety of beer and wine options.

Bringing Your Own Food on Icelandair Flights

If you prefer to bring your own food on board instead of purchasing from the in-flight menu or receiving a complimentary meal, you are welcome to do so on Icelandair flights. However, it’s important to note that there are restrictions for certain food items for international flights, such as fresh fruits and vegetables. It’s always best to check with the airline before bringing your own food on board.

In summary, Icelandair does serve free food on its international flights for economy class passengers. Premium economy and business class passengers can also enjoy upgraded dining experiences with more gourmet options. Special dietary accommodations are available upon request, and snacks and beverages can be purchased onboard as well. Whether you prefer to dine in-flight or bring your own snacks, Icelandair has options to suit every traveler’s needs. So sit back, relax, and enjoy the complimentary meal service on your next flight with Icelandair. Bon appétit!

Q: Does Icelandair serve free food on international flights?
A: Yes, Icelandair provides complimentary meals on all international flights.

Q: Are there any dietary restrictions or special meal options available on Icelandair international flights?
A: Yes, passengers can request special meals, such as vegetarian, gluten-free, and kosher options at least 48 hours prior to their flight departure.

Q: Is alcohol included in the free food service on Icelandair international flights?
A: No, alcoholic beverages are not included in the complimentary meal service. However, they can be purchased from the in-flight menu.

Q: Can I bring my own food onboard Icelandair international flights?
A: Yes, you are allowed to bring your own food and non-alcoholic beverages onboard. However, please note that all liquids must adhere to the TSA’s 3-1-1 rule for carry-on items.

Q: Do children receive free meals on Icelandair international flights?
A: Yes, children aged 2-11 years old receive a free kids’ meal on all Icelandair international flights. Children under 2 years old can share a meal with an adult companion at no additional cost.

Q: Are there any charges for booking a special or preferred seat if I want extra space or convenience while having food on an Icelandair international flight?
A: Yes, there is an additional fee for selecting preferred seats with extra legroom or convenience while having meals. You can pre-select your seat during booking or by managing your reservation online after purchase.

In conclusion, it is evident that Icelandair does serve free food on international flights, but the offerings and availability may vary depending on the class of service and destination. The airline has a reputation for providing quality meals, often incorporating traditional Icelandic cuisine into their menu options.

The decision to offer complimentary meals on international flights is ultimately a strategic choice made by an airline. In the case of Icelandair, their emphasis on highlighting Icelandic culture and hospitality likely plays a role in their decision to provide free food to passengers. This not only adds value to the overall experience for travelers but also serves as a reflection of Icelandair’s commitment to showcasing their country’s unique identity.

A significant factor to consider is that while complimentary meals may be provided, it is still prudent for travelers to check with the airline and plan accordingly. As seen in our analysis, certain routes or classes of service may have limited or no meal options available. Additionally, dietary restrictions and special requests should be communicated in advance to ensure satisfaction during the flight.

Overall, our research shows that Icelandair offers free food on international flights as part of their standard service. This adds value to the overall travel experience and further enhances the airline’s reputation for providing excellent hospitality. As a final takeaway, it is essential for travelers to be aware of

Author Profile

Erick Benitez

In 2003, the Coast Sushi Bar was founded, quickly becoming a beloved fixture in its trendy neighborhood, appreciated for its exceptional sushi and vibrant BYOB atmosphere.

The chefs at Coast have developed a mastery in blending subtle yet intricate flavors, establishing a reputation for pioneering innovative New-Japanese cuisine with only the finest global ingredients.

Building on decades of culinary success, the founder launched a new endeavor in 2024—a blog focused on Japanese snacks. This blog marks a significant shift from restaurateur to food blogger, motivated by a desire to share comprehensive insights into Japanese culinary arts and snack culture. The content covers traditional snacks, the evolution of snack culture in Japan, and the global influence and adaptation of these snacks.

Each blog post reflects the founder's commitment to quality and attention to detail, mirroring the standards of Coast Sushi Bar.

Aimed at both aficionados and novices of Japanese cuisine, the blog serves as a resource for deepening readers’ knowledge and appreciation of Japan's rich and diverse food culture.

Uncovering the Truth: Icelandair’s Policy on Complimentary Meals during International Flights