Icelandair Flight 622 Guide: KEF To Newark Route Details, Schedules, And Passenger Reviews (2026 Edition)

Icelandair Flight 622 (FI622/ICE622) is a premier daily scheduled transatlantic flight operating from Keflavík International Airport (KEF) in Iceland to Newark Liberty International Airport (EWR) serving the New York metropolitan area. This specialized route guide provides the most up-to-date schedule details, fleet specifications, onboard services, airport transit strategies, and passenger insights for travelers planning their journeys in 2026.

Using Iceland’s unique geographic position, FI622 acts as a vital bridge for travelers journeying from mainland Europe to the East Coast of the United States. Passengers departing from cities like London, Paris, Amsterdam, Copenhagen, and Frankfurt can seamlessly connect at the Keflavík hub before boarding Flight 622 to Newark.

Operational Overview of FI622 from Reykjavik to New York/Newark

Flight FI622 covers a great-circle distance of approximately 2,591 miles (4,170 km) across the North Atlantic. The average westbound flight duration is 5 hours and 45 minutes, though this can vary slightly depending on seasonal jet streams and North Atlantic air traffic control routing.

Departing in the late afternoon from Keflavík (KEF), the flight chases the sunset westward, landing at Newark Liberty International Airport (EWR) in the early evening of the same day. This timing is highly strategic for both business and leisure travelers, as it allows for a full morning of connections or sightseeing in Iceland, followed by an arrival in the United States early enough to catch evening ground transport or regional domestic connections.

Key Flight Statistics and Route Parameters

• Departure Airport: Keflavík International Airport (KEF), Iceland
• Arrival Airport: Newark Liberty International Airport (EWR), New Jersey/New York, USA
• Average Flight Duration: 5 hours, 45 minutes
• Frequency: Daily scheduled service (with increased frequencies during peak summer travel periods)
• Typical Departure Window: 16:55 to 17:15 GMT
• Typical Arrival Window: 19:10 to 19:30 EST

Aircraft Fleet Specifications on the FI622 Route in 2026

Icelandair's transatlantic fleet in 2026 relies on a balanced mix of highly efficient narrowbody aircraft designed for mid-to-long-range operations. For the KEF-to-EWR route, Icelandair primarily deploys the Boeing 737 MAX 8 and Boeing 737 MAX 9, alongside their newly integrated Airbus A321LR aircraft, which are systematically replacing the older Boeing 757 models.

Boeing 737 MAX 8 & MAX 9

These aircraft feature modern sky interiors, quieter engines, and advanced fuel efficiency. The cabin configuration is divided into two distinct classes: Saga Premium (Icelandair’s equivalent of regional business class) and Economy. The Boeing 737 MAX 9 offers slightly more capacity and a longer fuselage, but provides a matching passenger experience to the MAX 8.

Airbus A321LR (Long Range)

Introduced rapidly into the fleet to modernize transatlantic corridors, the Airbus A321LR provides exceptional passenger comfort. It features wider seats in both cabins, upgraded in-flight entertainment systems, and improved cabin pressurization levels, which significantly reduce traveler fatigue over long flights.

The following comparison table outlines the typical cabin configuration and seat dimensions across the primary aircraft types used for Flight 622 in 2026:

Complete Flight Schedule, Timings, and Connection Windows

The schedule for Flight 622 is built around Icelandair’s highly coordinated hub-and-spoke wave at Keflavík Airport. Incoming flights from over 25 European cities arrive in Iceland between 14:30 and 16:00. This provides incoming passengers with a tight but reliable 60-to-90-minute layover window before FI622 departs for Newark.

Typical 2026 Flight Timetable

• KEF Departure: 17:00 GMT (Greenwich Mean Time)
• EWR Arrival: 19:15 EST (Eastern Standard Time / UTC-5)
• Total Elapsed Time: 6 hours, 15 minutes (accounting for timezone differences, passengers gain 5 hours on this westbound route)

Expert Insider Tip on Connection Protection Because Icelandair operates KEF as a dedicated hub, they actively monitor incoming connection gates. If an inbound flight from Europe experiences a minor delay, the airline will frequently hold Flight 622 for connecting passengers. Checked bags are automatically transferred through KEF directly to Newark without requiring re-collection in Iceland.

Navigating the Keflavík (KEF) and Newark (EWR) Airport Experience

The ground experience at both ends of this route plays a major role in overall traveler satisfaction. Knowing what to expect at KEF and EWR ensures a seamless journey.

Departing from Keflavík International Airport (KEF)

Keflavík is a modern, single-terminal airport characterized by clean Scandinavian design, excellent dining options, and efficient security processing.

1. Check-In and Security: Icelandair passengers can use dedicated self-service kiosks or standard bag-drop counters in the main departures hall. Security lines are highly optimized, with average wait times under 15 minutes.
2. Schengen Border Control: Because the United States is outside the Schengen Zone, passengers must clear passport control at KEF before reaching the D-gates, where FI622 typically departs. Travelers should budget at least 20 minutes to pass through the automated e-gates or manual passport booths.
3. The Icelandair Saga Lounge: Located on the upper level of the departure hall, this premium lounge is open to Saga Premium passengers and high-tier frequent flyers (Saga Club Gold/Silver and select partner alliances). It features panoramic views of the Reykjanes peninsula, hot buffet dining featuring Icelandic specialties, a fireplace, and private shower suites.

Arriving at Newark Liberty International Airport (EWR)

Flight 622 lands at Newark’s Terminal B, the primary international arrivals terminal.

1. U.S. Customs and Border Protection (CBP): Upon deplaning, passengers proceed to the federal inspection area. Travelers with Global Entry or the Mobile Passport Control (MPC) app can expect significantly faster processing times compared to standard visitor queues.
2. Baggage Claim and Re-Check: Checked luggage is retrieved in the arrivals hall directly after passport control. If you have a connecting domestic flight with a partner carrier, you must collect your bags, clear customs, and drop them at the designated transfer desks.
3. Ground Transportation in 2026: Newark Terminal B is directly connected to the AirTrain system. Passengers can take the AirTrain to the Newark Liberty International Airport Station to catch NJ Transit or Amtrak trains into Pennsylvania Station in midtown Manhattan (approx. 30 minutes) or south toward Philadelphia. Taxis, rideshare zones (Uber/Lyft), and express buses are also located directly outside Terminal B.

Onboard Experience, Dining, and In-Flight Wi-Fi

The in-flight experience on Flight 622 is designed to showcase Icelandic hospitality, featuring local music, nature-inspired lighting, and domestic ingredients.

Saga Premium Experience

Traveling in Saga Premium provides a quiet, spacious environment. Passengers receive a warm welcome drink, noise-canceling headphones, and a high-quality amenity kit containing Icelandic skin-care products.

Dining in Saga Premium consists of a curated multi-course meal designed by top Icelandic chefs. Options often include fresh Atlantic seafood, organic lamb, and traditional Skyr desserts. All beverages, including an extensive list of premium wines, local craft beers, and spirits, are complimentary.

Economy Class Experience (Light, Standard, and Flex)

Economy passengers enjoy comfortable seats with adjustable headrests. Every seat is equipped with an individual touch-screen entertainment system containing a curated library of movies, television shows, and an "Icelandic Music" channel showcasing local artists.

While non-alcoholic beverages (water, coffee, tea, soft drinks) are complimentary, meals and alcoholic beverages must be purchased from the onboard Saga Kitchen menu. Passengers can pre-order hot meals online up to 24 hours before departure to guarantee availability.

Pros and Cons of Flying Icelandair FI622

To help travelers make an informed booking decision, here is a balanced comparison of choosing Icelandair Flight 622 over competing non-stop widebody flights on the same corridor:

Advantages (Pros)

• The Icelandair Stopover Program: Passengers can stop over in Iceland for up to 7 nights at no additional airfare cost, allowing them to turn a simple business trip into an Icelandic vacation.
• Highly Efficient Hub: KEF is much smaller and easier to navigate than mega-hubs like London Heathrow or Paris CDG, making connections stress-free.
• Modern Fleet: The high reliance on brand-new Boeing 737 MAX and Airbus A321LR aircraft ensures lower cabin noise and modern entertainment facilities.
• Eco-Friendly Performance: The newer single-aisle aircraft used on this route burn up to 20% less fuel per seat compared to older twin-aisle aircraft.

Disadvantages (Cons)

• Single-Aisle Cabin Space: The use of narrowbody (single-aisle) planes can make the cabin feel more confined compared to widebody aircraft like the Boeing 787 Dreamliner or Airbus A350.
• No Flat-Bed Seats in Premium: Unlike many transatlantic business class cabins, Saga Premium offers deep-reclining cradle seats rather than fully flat-bed seats.
• Buy-on-Board Economy Dining: Standard meals are not included for free in Economy Class, requiring an extra charge for hot food.

Step-by-Step Guide to Booking and Maximizing the Icelandair Stopover

If you are planning to book FI622 in 2026, you can easily integrate a visit to Iceland's natural wonders using the following guide:

1. Navigate to the Booking Engine: Visit the official Icelandair portal and select the "Stopover" booking option instead of a standard one-way or round-trip ticket.
2. Select Your Stopover Duration: Choose to spend between 1 to 7 nights in Iceland on your outbound journey before continuing on Flight 622 to Newark.
3. Choose Your Cabin and Fare Class: Economy Light is ideal for those traveling with carry-on luggage only. Choose Economy Standard to include a 23 kg (50 lbs) checked bag, or choose Saga Premium for priority boarding, lounge access, and premium seating.
4. Arrange Your Ground Transfer in Iceland: Book the Flybus or a rental car in advance from KEF airport. A popular stopover itinerary involves visiting the Blue Lagoon directly from the airport, followed by a stay in downtown Reykjavik.
5. Pre-Order Onboard Amenities: If flying Economy, log into the "My Journey" portal up to 24 hours prior to departure to pre-order fresh meals, select your preferred seat, or purchase discounted high-speed Wi-Fi access.

Frequently Asked Questions About Icelandair Flight 622

What is the baggage allowance for Icelandair Flight 622?

The baggage allowance depends on your ticket class. Economy Light allows one personal item and one carry-on bag (up to 10 kg / 22 lbs). Economy Standard and Flex tickets include one checked bag up to 23 kg (50 lbs), while Saga Premium passengers are allowed two checked bags up to 32 kg (70 lbs) each, alongside two carry-on bags.

Does Icelandair Flight 622 have flat-bed seats in business class?

No, Icelandair’s Saga Premium cabin does not feature lay-flat beds. Instead, it offers spacious leather recliner seats with a 40-inch pitch, generous recline, and adjustable footrests, comparable to domestic first class on major U.S. carriers.

What happens if my connecting flight to KEF is delayed and I miss FI622?

Because Icelandair operates as a network carrier, if you miss Flight 622 due to a delay on their inbound European flight, you will be automatically rebooked onto the next available flight to Newark or nearby JFK Airport at no extra cost. The airline will also provide hotel accommodations, meals, and transport if an overnight stay is required.

Can I access the Saga Lounge at KEF when flying on FI622?

Access to the Saga Lounge is complimentary for Saga Premium passengers, Icelandair Saga Gold and Silver members, and eligible frequent flyers of partner airlines (such as Alaska Airlines MVP Gold/75K/100K). Standard Economy passengers cannot purchase day passes to this lounge unless they hold elite status.

Which terminal does Icelandair use at Newark (EWR)?

Icelandair operates out of Terminal B at Newark Liberty International Airport for both arrivals and departures. Terminal B features modern retail, dining, and direct connections to regional ground transit services.

For travelers planning their transatlantic journeys in 2026, Icelandair Flight 622 offers a highly reliable, comfortable, and uniquely flexible travel experience. Whether you choose a direct, efficient connection at KEF or opt to extend your journey with a multi-day stopover in Iceland, FI622 remains a standout option for traveling between Europe and the New York metropolitan area.