Our review takes you through the Icelandic Aviation Museum in Akureyri, a destination that promises a fascinating glimpse into the evolution of flight in Iceland. Whether you’re an aviation enthusiast or simply curious about how airplanes shaped this remote island, this visit offers a mix of history, technology, and local stories.
What we love about this museum is its collection of historic aircraft—some still capable of flying—which adds a real sense of authenticity. Plus, the interactive displays, videos, and photographs help bring the story of Iceland’s aviation industry to life in a very tangible way.
A consideration for visitors is that the museum is located at Akureyri Airport, which might involve some logistical planning, especially if you’re not already near the airport. Also, while the admission price is quite reasonable, the experience is best appreciated if you have a genuine interest in aviation or history, as some exhibits are quite technical.
This tour suits travelers who enjoy learning through visual and tactile experiences, families with curious kids, or aviation buffs seeking a rundown of Iceland’s flight story.
Key Points
- Location: Situated conveniently at Akureyri Airport, easy for travelers in the region.
- Extensive Collection: Features aircrafts dating from 1919 to today, including some airworthy planes.
- Interactive Experience: Offers access inside some aircraft, plus videos, photographs, and models.
- Educational Focus: Highlights the development of Icelandic airlines, medical transport, and coast guard aviation.
- Value for Money: The ticket grants full access to the exhibits and interior views, making it a cost-effective visit.
- Accessibility: The museum is wheelchair accessible and offers information in English.
A Closer Look at the Icelandic Aviation Museum Experience
You can also read our reviews of more tours and experiences in Akureyri.
Why Visit the Icelandic Aviation Museum?
If you’re traveling in northern Iceland, especially around Akureyri, this museum offers a unique window into the island’s aviation past and present. Iceland’s rugged landscape and remote locations have made aircraft an essential part of its development—serving as lifelines, emergency responders, and carriers of Icelandic independence and connectivity.
The museum’s location at Akureyri Airport makes it very accessible for travelers who are already exploring the region. It’s an indoor-outdoor experience, meaning you’ll get close to historic aircraft and also spend time viewing multimedia exhibits indoors.
What’s Inside?
You’ll find a diverse collection of aircrafts, some dating back over a century. These include airplanes and helicopters, with some still capable of flying. The chance to enter the interiors of certain aircrafts is quite rare for a museum, giving visitors a real sense of how pilots and crew operated in different eras.
The exhibits include photographs, models, and videos that narrate the story of Iceland’s aviation industry, from its early beginnings in 1919 through to modern airline operations. This multimedia approach means you’re not just looking at static displays—rather, you’re engaging with the story of Iceland’s skies.
The Aircraft Collection
The highlight for many visitors is the historic aircraft collection. Some planes are in airworthy condition, participating in the museum’s annual air show in June—a chance to see aircraft in flight, adding excitement that’s quite rare for a museum visit. The presence of helicopters also illustrates how versatile and crucial rotorcraft have been for Iceland, especially for medical transports and coast guard missions.
The interior access allows for a better understanding of aircraft design, cockpit layouts, and the evolution of aviation technology. This is especially valuable for aviation enthusiasts who appreciate the technical details.
More Great Tours NearbyMultimedia and Interactive Elements
The museum doesn’t rely solely on aircraft displays. Instead, it offers videos and photographs that tell stories of Icelandic airline development, rescue missions, and coast guard operations. These elements help contextualize the aircraft you see, making the visit more meaningful.
Practical Details and Logistics
Admission is included in the ticket, and the museum is open for one day—be sure to check availability for your travel dates. The experience is self-guided, so you can take your time exploring at your own pace.
The museum is wheelchair accessible and offers information in English, making it friendly for international visitors.
Cost and Value
The ticket price is quite reasonable, especially considering the quality and scope of exhibits. Given the chance to explore aircraft interiors, watch videos, and see aircraft in flight during the air show, visitors receive good value for their money.
Plus, the flexibility to cancel up to 24 hours in advance and the option to reserve now and pay later provide peace of mind, especially in unpredictable travel plans.
Authenticity and Unique Experiences
What stands out is the authenticity of the experience. Unlike many static aviation museums, this one has aircraft that sometimes still fly. Hearing from visitors, one review notes they appreciated “the chance to see some planes in airworthy condition and participate in the annual air show,” adding a dynamic element to the visit.
Who Will Love This?
This museum is perfect for families, aviation fans, history buffs, and anyone interested in how Iceland connects to the wider world via air. It’s especially appealing if you’re already in Akureyri or planning a trip north, offering a well-rounded, educational, and engaging stop.
Final Thoughts: Is It Worth Visiting?
For a reasonable ticket price, the Icelandic Aviation Museum offers an insightful, engaging look into Iceland’s aviation history. The collection of aircraft, especially those still capable of flying, adds a layer of excitement. The multimedia exhibits help tell a story that’s both technical and human, illuminating how flight has shaped Iceland’s accessibility and safety.
While it’s best suited for those with a genuine interest in aviation or history, even casual visitors will find the attention to detail and authenticity appealing. The museum’s accessibility, flexible booking policies, and location at Akureyri Airport make it a convenient and worthwhile stop.
In short, if you’re traveling in the north of Iceland and want to see something different, this museum provides excellent value and a memorable experience that goes beyond typical sightseeing.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is the museum suitable for children?
Yes, especially for kids interested in planes and aircraft. They will likely enjoy exploring the aircraft interiors and watching videos.
Are there aircrafts that still fly?
Some aircrafts are in airworthy condition and participate in the annual air show in June, which adds a lively element to the experience.
How long does the visit take?
The duration depends on how much you want to explore, but you should plan for at least an hour to see everything thoroughly.
Is there wheelchair access?
Yes, the museum is wheelchair accessible, making it inclusive for all visitors.
Can I take photographs?
Photography is allowed, but flash photography is restricted to preserve the exhibits.
Where is the museum located?
It’s located at Akureyri Airport, making it easy to reach if you’re in the region.
Can I cancel my reservation?
Yes, you can cancel up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund, offering flexibility for your plans.
What is the price of entry?
The ticket includes admission to all exhibits, with good value considering the scope of the collection and interactive elements.
Is the experience suitable for aviation enthusiasts?
Absolutely, with access inside aircraft, detailed exhibits, and aircraft in flying condition, this museum caters well to aviation buffs.
This visit to the Icelandic Aviation Museum in Akureyri is a solid choice for those who want a hands-on, visually engaging history lesson with plenty of aircraft to admire. It’s a spot that offers both educational insight and genuine fun, especially during the annual air show. For travelers seeking an authentic, value-packed experience that’s a bit different from the usual, it’s well worth your time.
You can check availability for your dates here:More Museum Experiences in Akureyri
More Tickets in Akureyri
More Tour Reviews in Akureyri
- Lake Myvatn and Godafoss waterfall from the harbor in Akureyri
- From Akureyri Port: Diamond Circle Guided Day Trip w/ Lunch
- Godafoss Waterfall & Turf House Tour from Akureyri Port
- From Akureyri: Lake Mývatn and Godafoss Cruise Ship Day-Trip
- From Akureyri: Diamond Circle Tour
- Godafoss, Laufás Museum & Akureyri Highlights Tour
Not for you? Here's more nearby things to do in Akureyri we have reviewed
- Lake Myvatn and Godafoss waterfall from the harbor in Akureyri
- From Akureyri Port: Diamond Circle Guided Day Trip w/ Lunch
- Godafoss Waterfall & Turf House Tour from Akureyri Port
- From Akureyri: Lake Mývatn and Godafoss Cruise Ship Day-Trip
- From Akureyri: Diamond Circle Tour
- Godafoss, Laufás Museum & Akureyri Highlights Tour
- From Akureyri: Mývatn Lake & Goðafoss CruiseShip tour +Lunch
- From Reykjavik: Extreme Northern Lights Tour with Dinner
- Akureyri Port: Myvatn Nature Baths & Godafoss Waterfall Tour
- Akureyri: Private Whale Watching and Arctic Coastline Tour
- Akureyri: Food Walk and Whale Watching Tour
- Akureyri Port: Godafoss Waterfall Guided Tour with Pickup