WestJet Launches Direct Flights from Winnipeg to Reykjavik in 2026

WestJet Airlines has announced that it will launch a direct flight route between Winnipeg and Reykjavik, Iceland, beginning on June 27, 2026. This new service will connect Winnipeggers to the country known as the land of fire and ice with a flight time of approximately six hours. The airline will initially offer weekly flights, marking the return of transatlantic services from Winnipeg for the first time since 2019.

The announcement was made by April Crane, WestJet’s Vice President of Communications and Engagement, during a press conference at Winnipeg Richardson International Airport. She emphasized the significance of this route for the local community, noting that Manitoba is home to the largest Icelandic population outside of Iceland.

The last direct flights from Winnipeg to Iceland ceased in 2011 when Iceland Express ended its operations. According to Scott Marohn, Vice President of Commercial at WestJet, this new route is not just about convenience; it represents a deep cultural and economic connection between the two regions.

“This flight strengthens the ties between our regions,” Marohn stated. “It gives Manitobans the chance to explore their heritage, experience Iceland’s rich culture, or use it as a gateway to Europe.” He highlighted the unique attractions of Iceland during the summer months, including nearly 24-hour daylight, stunning landscapes, and various cultural festivals. Marohn also pointed out that a total solar eclipse will occur on August 12, 2026, marking the first such event in Iceland since 1954.

The significance of this route extends beyond tourism. Ryan Kuffner, President and CEO of Winnipeg Economic Development & Tourism, described the new flight as a catalyst for economic opportunity. He noted that Iceland relies heavily on imported goods, presenting strong potential for Manitoba exporters, especially in agriculture and food production.

Kuffner also mentioned that approximately 25 percent of foreign direct investment in Manitoba originates from Europe, making this route particularly valuable for local businesses. He believes that improved access to Europe will enhance Winnipeg’s attractiveness as a destination for both tourists and investors, further stimulating economic growth.

In addition to the new Reykjavik route, WestJet is also expanding its service offerings from Winnipeg. The airline will operate year-round flights to Cancun, Mexico, and introduce thrice-weekly flights to London, Ontario, starting in mid-May. These developments are seen as part of a broader strategy to enhance connectivity for both business and leisure travelers.

If the new routes to Reykjavik and London prove successful, WestJet is prepared to extend their schedules beyond the typical summer timeframe, which generally concludes in August or September. The connections between Manitoba and Iceland date back 150 years, when the first Icelandic settlers arrived at Lake Winnipeg, highlighting a long-standing relationship that continues to evolve.

As tourism in Winnipeg gains momentum, with overseas visitor spending increasing by over 20 percent this year compared to last, the new direct flight to Iceland is expected to further bolster this growth. Kuffner remarked, “This route is a catalyst for economic opportunity,” reinforcing the importance of enhancing global connectivity for the region.

The launch of this direct flight route is a significant development for both the local community and the broader economic landscape in Manitoba. As WestJet prepares for the summer of 2026, the anticipation surrounding this new connection to Iceland underscores the enduring ties and shared opportunities between the two regions.