Celebrating 40 years of Icelandair's Saga Premium experience

In 1984, Icelandair embarked on a journey to redefine air travel with the introduction of Saga Class, now known as Saga Premium.

This year we celebrate the 40th anniversary of this service, a testament to our commitment to comfort, elegance, and hospitality with a distinctly Icelandic flavor.

From its inception, Saga Premium has set a high standard for premium travel, offering passengers a unique blend of luxury, comfort, and the warm and welcoming spirit of Iceland.

The genesis of Saga Class

Saga Class began as our response to the growing demand for a more luxurious and personalized flying experience.

At a time when air travel was becoming increasingly accessible, we recognized the need to offer more than just a seat on a plane for those looking for an enhanced travel experience. Saga Class was envisioned as a way to provide our passengers with a higher level of service, privacy, and comfort.

From its early days, Saga Class featured quality in-flight dining and exclusive service. Soon after its launch, it introduced more spacious seating (wider seats and extra legroom). Over the years the cabin has evolved, adopting new technologies and amenities to enhance the passenger experience.

The evolution of Saga Premium

The evolution of Saga Premium is a story of continuous innovation and refinement. In the early days, the focus was on creating a distinctively comfortable and private space within the aircraft.

Over time, as passenger expectations and technology advanced, Saga Premium introduced features such as on-demand in-flight entertainment, gourmet dining options and an enhanced drinks menu, complimentary onboard Wi-Fi, noise-cancelling headphones, and amenity kits for North American journeys that brought some of our favorite Icelandic features to the journey, such as local art and wildlife.

The Icelandair Saga Lounge (pictured below) at Keflavík airport first opened in 1988 offering passengers flying in Saga Premium the chance to enjoy refreshments and relaxation before boarding. The lounge was renovated in 2017, inviting our passengers to a renewed and modern environment to relax in.

In 2018, Saga Class was rebranded as 'Saga Premium' to highlight the premium quality of this option, especially to our international passengers.

The heart of Saga Premium: Service excellence

At the core of Saga Premium's enduring success is its exceptional service. The cabin crew, many of whom have been with Icelandair for decades, embody the warmth and hospitality Iceland is known for.

One such crew member is Erna Sigurðardóttir, who has been part of our team for 45 years, since 1979. She shares her perspective:

"From the moment our passengers step aboard, we strive to sprinkle a little magic into their journey. Some passengers travel for business and need to focus on their work during the flight, while others enjoy the flight itself and relax to the fullest. Our mission is to make sure that our passengers receive a superior service when they fly Saga Premium. Over the years, I've seen firsthand how small gestures, a warm smile, and attention to detail can transform the flying experience. It's about creating a connection, making our passengers feel comfortable, and showing them the unique Icelandic hospitality."

The Saga Premium experience today

Today, Saga Premium continues to offer an enhanced flying experience.

Passengers enjoy a generous baggage allowance, priority check-in and boarding, access to exclusive airport lounges, and an in-flight experience designed to cater to every need. The cuisine, inspired by Icelandic culinary traditions and made with fresh, locally sourced ingredients, is a highlight for many. The selection of local gins and the ever-changing wine options also add to the fine-dining experience.

As we celebrate this milestone, we invite you to explore the Saga Premium experience and see for yourself how we've been bringing the spirit of Iceland to the skies for 40 years.

Looking ahead: The future of Saga Premium

As we look to the future, we remain committed to innovating and enhancing the Saga Premium experience. Plans are under way to introduce new sustainability initiatives, further personalize the service, and continue to incorporate the latest in comfort and technology.

Saga Premium's 40th anniversary is not just a celebration of past achievements but a promise of what's to come. We look forward to welcoming you on board and sharing the next chapter in our journey together.

Join us in celebrating 40 years of Saga Premium

As we commemorate this milestone, we extend our heartfelt thanks to our passengers, crew, and everyone who's been a part of the Saga Premium story.

Here's to many more years of exploring the world together in comfort and style.