The new route enhances international travel options for the Midwest region and strengthens partnerships with Southwest Airlines
Category: Travel
Today, Icelandair announced the addition of its newest gateway at St. Louis Lambert International Airport (STL), launching nonstop flights to Iceland and beyond. The service will operate using a Boeing 737MAX 8 up to four times a week from May 14 to October 24, 2027, on Mondays, Wednesdays, Fridays, and Sundays. This new route will not only provide North American travelers with more options to Europe but will also open the Midwest to business, trade, and tourism for European visitors.
"We’re very pleased to add St. Louis to our network next summer. St. Louis is an exciting addition, particularly in light of our growing partnership with Southwest Airlines, which will create convenient connections between destinations across North America, Iceland, and Europe," said Tomas Ingason, Icelandair’s Chief Commercial Officer.
The new flights will offer connections to more than 35 destinations in Europe, enhancing the travel experience for residents and visitors alike. Ambassador Kevin F. O’Malley, chair of the St. Louis County Port Authority, emphasized the significance of this development. "Over the last few years, the St. Louis County Port Authority has been working tirelessly to connect St. Louis to key international partners. Just like with our other new international flights, we feel this new connection to Iceland will bring new opportunities to our region and will continue to show the world that St. Louis truly is a global city," O’Malley stated.
Known as the "Gateway to the West," St. Louis is characterized by its location on the Mississippi River and its role in the westward expansion of the United States. The city’s most recognizable landmark, the Gateway Arch, rises 630 feet (192 meters) above the riverfront, offering sweeping views of the city and surrounding region. Mayor Cara Spencer remarked, "Having Icelandair as the latest international carrier to begin service at St. Louis Lambert International Airport shows that St. Louis is truly a global destination. Not only does this new air service provide our region with another option across the Atlantic, it also gives us one more way to roll out the welcome mat to our growing friends in Europe."
The arrival of Icelandair marks a notable expansion in St. Louis's international flight offerings, providing a direct link to Iceland and beyond. County Executive Sam Page highlighted the mutual benefits of this service: "This flight goes both ways. Our residents gain a direct connection to Iceland, and their travelers gain an easy way to discover St. Louis. This is one more big win for the St. Louis region, expediting international travel and economic opportunity."
The introduction of this route aligns with a broader trend of increasing international connectivity for Midwestern cities. As cities like Columbus, Ohio, and Nashville, Tennessee, also announce new transatlantic flights, St. Louis is positioning itself as a competitive player in the international travel market. Brad Dean, President and CEO of Explore St. Louis, stated, "St. Louis is gaining real momentum as an international gateway, and Icelandair’s new nonstop service is an exciting step forward. Travelers from Iceland and beyond will have an easier path to experience our region, and local businesses will benefit from the influx of visitors."
This new service also highlights the strategic partnership between Icelandair and Southwest Airlines. With Southwest being the largest carrier at St. Louis Lambert International Airport, the collaboration will provide travelers with convenient connections from various North American destinations through St. Louis to Iceland and onward to Europe. Acting Airport Director Jerry Beckmann remarked, "Icelandair’s announcement demonstrates the many strengths of St. Louis Lambert International Airport as we secure international routes for our travelers and the region."
The new flights are set to begin on May 14, 2027, with bookings expected to open soon. This development is anticipated to stimulate economic growth in the St. Louis area as it enhances the region's appeal to international travelers. The additional connections to Europe could lead to increased tourism, business opportunities, and cultural exchange.
As more airlines announce new routes to and from St. Louis, the airport is likely to see a surge in passenger traffic. This is part of a larger trend where U.S. cities are enhancing their international connectivity, with recent announcements of new routes from cities like Columbus, Ohio, to Frankfurt and Nashville, Tennessee, to London.
With the flight schedule running through the summer months, travelers can expect to take advantage of favorable weather conditions and seasonal travel patterns. This could potentially lead to a busy travel season, with both leisure and business travelers eager to explore new destinations. The new Icelandair route is expected to benefit travelers and local businesses that cater to visitors, from hotels to restaurants and attractions.
As the May 2027 launch date approaches, stakeholders in the St. Louis region are preparing to welcome a new wave of international travelers eager to explore the city and its rich cultural offerings. The new service is a promising development for the Gateway City, enhancing its status as a global destination and enriching the travel options available for its residents.