Air China launches route hailed as 55th anniversary gift

China’s new Air China service to Iceland is the “best gift” for the 55th anniversary of diplomatic relations between the two countries, Chinese Ambassador to Iceland He Rulong said, according to mbl.is.

The first Air China flight landed at Keflavik Airport at noon on Monday after stopping in Copenhagen. Flights will operate three times a week, on Mondays, Thursdays and Saturdays. The journey takes about 15 hours and 45 minutes, including the stopover.

Rulong told China Daily the route would make travel easier and support business and cooperation between companies, universities, research institutions and cultural organisations, as well as exchanges among young people. He said it reflected both countries’ desire for closer cooperation, wider exchanges and stronger ties.

The new connection will also make Iceland’s glaciers, volcanoes and northern lights more accessible to Chinese tourists, Rulong said, while giving Icelanders more opportunities to learn about China’s history, culture and modern society.

China introduced a unilateral visa exemption for Icelandic citizens in late 2024. Holders of ordinary Icelandic passports can stay in China for up to 30 days for business, family visits, exchanges or tourism.