Flight Cancelled in Iceland? Know Your Rights and Claim Compensation

Unexpected Flight Cancellation in Iceland? Here's What to Do

Iceland, a land of breathtaking landscapes, northern lights, and volcanic wonders, attracts millions of visitors each year. Whether you're flying into Reykjavík’s Keflavík International Airport (KEF) or taking a domestic flight from Reykjavík Airport (RKV), a sudden flight cancellation can quickly turn your dream trip into a logistical nightmare.

Fortunately, European law (EC 261/2004) protects air passengers, meaning you may be eligible for up to €600 in compensation for a cancelled flight.

Let’s break down your options, your rights, and the best ways to minimize the disruption to your travel plans.

Why Are Flights Frequently Cancelled in Iceland?

Iceland’s extreme weather conditions play a major role in flight disruptions. The country's unpredictable storms, strong winds, and volcanic activity frequently cause cancellations, especially in winter. Other reasons may include:

• Airline operational issues – Staff shortages, technical faults, or overbooking.

• Airport congestion – Delays in connecting flights due to tight schedules.

• Air traffic control restrictions – Particularly for flights in and out of Europe.

Can You Get Compensation for a Cancelled Flight in Iceland?

Yes! Under EC 261/2004, if your flight departed from Iceland or arrived in Iceland on an EU-based airline, you are entitled to financial compensation—unless the airline proves the cancellation was due to extraordinary circumstances (e.g., extreme weather or air traffic control strikes).

How Much Compensation Can You Claim?

• €250 – Flights up to 1,500 km

• €400 – Flights between 1,500 km and 3,500 km

• €600 – Flights over 3,500 km

You can also demand:
✅ A full refund or rebooking
✅ Meals and refreshments
✅ Hotel accommodation (if stranded overnight)
✅ Transport to and from the airport

💡 Example: If your flight from Keflavík to London (KEF-LGW) was cancelled, you could claim €400 in compensation. If it was a long-haul flight to New York (KEF-JFK), your payout could be €600!

What If You Need to Find an Alternative Flight?

If your flight is cancelled and you need to find another way out of Iceland, consider:

1. Check Other Airlines

If your airline cancels your flight, they should offer rebooking on the next available flight. However, if that takes too long, check flights with other carriers like:

• Icelandair

• Play Airlines

• Wizz Air

• SAS (Scandinavian Airlines)

2. Fly from Another Icelandic Airport

While Keflavík International Airport (KEF) is Iceland’s main international hub, Reykjavík Airport (RKV) also operates flights to Greenland and Scandinavia. If you're flying domestically, you might find options at Akureyri Airport (AEY) in northern Iceland.

🚗 How to Get to Another Airport:

• Reykjavík Airport (RKV) is just 5 km from downtown Reykjavík (15 min by taxi).

• Akureyri Airport (AEY) is a 5-hour drive from Reykjavík, but domestic flights from Reykjavík Airport can take you there in 40 minutes.

3. Take a Flight from a Nearby Country

If all flights from Iceland are grounded, consider flying from Bergen (Norway) or Copenhagen (Denmark). Iceland has regular ferry connections to Denmark, and you can take an alternative flight from there.

How to Claim Compensation for Your Cancelled Flight

Step 1: Check If You’re Eligible

Use an online flight compensation calculator to check if you qualify.

Step 2: Gather Your Documents

• Boarding pass & booking confirmation

• Cancellation email or airline notification

• Receipts for expenses (meals, hotel, transport)

Step 3: File Your Claim

You can submit your claim directly to the airline or let a professional service handle the process for you.

💰 Airlines often reject claims unfairly—don’t let them deny you what you’re owed!

Can You Get Compensation If Your Flight Was Cancelled Due to Bad Weather?

Unfortunately, bad weather is considered an extraordinary circumstance, meaning the airline is not obligated to pay compensation. However, they must still offer you an alternative flight or a refund.

TIP: If your flight was cancelled due to bad weather but other airlines were still operating, you can argue that the airline failed to rebook you on time.

What If Your Airline Goes Bankrupt?

Iceland-based airlines like WOW Air have gone bankrupt before, leaving thousands stranded. If your airline shuts down before you fly:

• Check your travel insurance policy

• Contact your credit card company for chargeback options

• Look for alternate flights with Icelandair or Play Airlines

Real Passenger Stories: Compensation Success in Iceland

📝 Anna’s Story (Cancelled Flight from KEF to Paris)
"Icelandair cancelled my flight due to ‘operational reasons.’ I applied for compensation and got €400 within three weeks!"

📝 Lars’ Story (Cancelled Flight from KEF to New York)
"My flight was cancelled because the airline overbooked. I didn't know I could claim money until a friend told me. I got €600!"

Final Thoughts: Don’t Let a Cancelled Flight in Iceland Ruin Your Trip

A cancelled flight in Iceland doesn’t have to mean financial loss or unnecessary stress. Know your rights, claim what you're owed, and explore alternative flight options.

✈️ If your flight was cancelled, check if you're eligible for up to €600 in compensation today!