The flag carrier of Iceland, Icelandair, is a well-known airline worldwide. It is notable for its unique inflight offerings and ability to spread Icelandic culture across the globe. The 85-year-old airline works to teach its passengers about the history of the country, its culture, and its everlasting heritage during every flight. However, although the brand is recognizable, some frequent travelers may not know much about Icelandair. Let's look at some unique facts about the carrier.

1 Aircraft are named after Icelandic attractions

Icelandair has a large fleet composed of over 40 aircraft. This includes several Boeing 757 variants, Boeing 737 MAXs, and even a few De Havilland Canada Dash 8 variants. The airline also has several Airbus A321s on order.

However, what is unique about each of its aircraft is that they are named after specific Icelandic attractions. Some of these names are Vatnajökull, Europe's largest glacier, and Þingvellir, a national park where the Icelandic parliament was founded.

2 Livery represents Icelandic landmarks

In addition to unique aircraft names, the Icelandair fleet also boasts a distinctive livery. The livery, which was updated in 2022, includes new colors inspired by Icelandic nature.

Photo: Vincenzo Pace | Simple Flying

The new aircraft have a base color of midnight blue and white. However, each aircraft has a secondary color: boreal blue, magenta, crisp blue, golden yellow, or green. These colors were inspired by the Northern Lights, frequently seen in Iceland.

3 Lights within the cabin

Also partly inspired by the Northern Lights is the interior lighting in certain aircraft. The mood lighting within the cabins varies from blue LED lighting mimicking ice caves to moving lights that create the illusion of the Northern Lights.

4 Unique Icelandic food offerings

For longer flights, Icelandair serves a feast inspired by Icelandic ingredients. This includes hjónabandssæla, an oat square covered in jam, Icelandic chocolate, and locally distilled spirits.

5 Icelandic day treats

Additional inflight treats are served for special Icelandic days.

For example, pastry buns are served aboard flights that take place on Bolludagur, which is Iceland's Bun Day.

Photo: Vincenzo Pace | Simple Flying

6 Special onboard soundtracks

During the boarding process, Icelandair plays gentle music. Some travelers may not know that the music played is composed and performed by local Icelandic artists. Additionally, Icelandair sponsors the acclaimed Iceland Airwaves music festival to support local artists even further.

7 Inflight entertainment

Another unique feature aboard Icelandair flights is the entertainment offerings. In addition to the IFE system showing common television programs and movies, it also features Icelandic films and documentaries. One specific documentary highlights the country's shopping experiences, activities, health and wellness, and culinary experiences.

8 Icelandic language within the cabin

The airline also reflects its unique language throughout the entirety of its brand. Without exception, the language is found throughout the flying experience. Not just limited to onboard announcements, cups and napkins handed out during the flight have Icelandic imprinted on them.