Between the North Atlantic and Nordic capitals
Founded in 1937, Icelandair occupies a unique geographical position between North America and Europe. In 1960, however, the routes shown here do not yet cross the Atlantic toward America: they focus on Northern Europe, the United Kingdom, Scandinavia and Iceland-linked services.
This flight plan offers two sets of routes: a major rotation from Keflavik to Glasgow, Oslo, Copenhagen, Hamburg and London, then a Nordic loop connecting Glasgow, Copenhagen, Gothenburg, Oslo, Stockholm and Helsinki.
The scenario
The departure from Keflavik sets the tone immediately: a long North Atlantic leg to Glasgow, then a continuation toward Norway, Denmark and Germany. The return through London, Hamburg, Copenhagen, Oslo and Glasgow creates a proper airline rotation, mixing long stages and shorter stopovers.
The second loop focuses more strongly on Scandinavia: Copenhagen, Gothenburg, Oslo, Stockholm, Helsinki, then back through the same northern hubs. It is ideal for a shorter weather-driven campaign, with approaches that can become demanding very quickly.
Suggested route
Keflavik and the North Atlantic
The first rotation sets the Icelandair mood: northern weather, a long sea crossing and a UK arrival before continuing into northern Europe.
BIKF → EGPF → ENGM → EKCH → EDDH → EGLL
Return through northern capitals
The return works as a scheduled airline rotation, with shorter legs and a clear reading of the Scandinavian network.
EGLL → EDDH → EKCH → ENGM → EGPF → BIKF
Scandinavian loop
This shorter loop is ideal for a weather-focused campaign around the major Nordic hubs.
EKCH → ESGG → ENGM → ESSA → EFHF → ESSA → ENGM → ESGG → EKCH
Recommended aircraft
Jens B. Kristensen's Vickers Viscount fits the spirit of this route very well. The recommended file is viscount_10.zip, available from FlightSim.com.
GPS is recommended alongside VOR/DME and ADF/NDB navigation. On the long Keflavik - Glasgow sectors, prepare fuel, cruise altitude and alternate weather before departure.
Simulation advice
For a credible experience, fly these routes with real weather or cold, unstable conditions. Wind, visibility and cloud layers are part of the atmosphere: Icelandair is as much about navigation as it is about patience in northern skies.
© Michel Lagneau 2020