East Wing of KEF Airport Officially Opened

"The East Wing, which we officially open today, is not just another step in the airport’s Masterplan but a tangible confirmation of our vision for Keflavík Airport as an international hub connecting Europe and North America," said Daði Már Kristófersson, Minister of Finance and Economic Affairs, as he formally opened the new East Wing of Keflavík Airport. He emphasized the importance of strong international connections and transportation links for Iceland’s economic growth and prosperity.

The East Wing is a significant expansion of the terminal, increasing its size by 30% and greatly enhancing airport facilities. This development enables Keflavík Airport to better support the growth of airlines and other partners while improving the overall experience for passengers.

The East Wing marks the first major step in Keflavík Airport’s long-term development plan, aimed at reinforcing its role as a key transfer hub, increasing flight connectivity, and enhancing Iceland’s global competitiveness.

He added, "These projects are essential not only to accommodate future growth but also to sustain the success we have already achieved in passenger numbers, transfer traffic, and overall connectivity, all of which directly contribute to economic growth."

Kristján Þór Júlíusson, Chairman of Isavia’s Board, stressed the importance of continuing airport development, with current efforts focused on prioritizing future projects.

Despite Isavia’s strong operational performance, Kristján Þór noted that the scale of necessary infrastructure investments over the coming years exceeds the company’s financial capacity. "Increasing capital investment is essential to support these developments."

Sveinbjörn Indriðason echoed this sentiment, highlighting the need for open discussions with the Ministry of Finance and Economic Affairs, who hold the shares in publicly owned Keflavik Airport operator Isavia, regarding financing options. They could include increased capital investment or the involvement of an international minority investor. "Bringing in investors specialized in airport development could add significant value through both financial contributions and expertise, strengthening our competitive position against other international airports."

Below are key details about the new East Wing and its construction. More information on Keflavík Airport’s development can be found at www.kefplus.is/en.

Key Milestones and Benefits:

2021: Groundbreaking ceremony led by the Minister of Finance and Economic Affairs on June 1.

2023: New, more spacious arrivals hall with improved baggage claim facilities opened in August, enhancing efficiency and passenger experience.

2024: New duty-free shopping area in arrivals opened in March; expanded dining options in departures opened in November.

2025: Official opening on March 20 following test operations in February. Four new boarding bridges and two additional remote gates improve passenger flow and overall experience. A new aircraft apron enhances operational efficiency, and the departure lounge is significantly expanded.

A Responsible Development

• Total cost: Estimated at ISK 29.6 billion, within the original budget framework, adjusted for inflation.
• Project timeline: Largely adhered to despite challenges from the pandemic and supply chain disruptions due to the war in Ukraine.
• Sustainability: Built in accordance with Isavia’s sustainability policy, the East Wing is BREEAM-certified, minimizing environmental impact and reducing long-term operational costs.

Key Specifications:

• Size: 25,000 m² (a 30% terminal expansion; for comparison, Harpa Concert Hall is nearly 30,000 m²).
• Height: 31 meters (compared to Akureyri Church towers at 26 meters).
• Width: 66 meters (similar to a standard football field); Length: 124.5 meters (roughly the length of Bankastræti in Reykjavík).
• Apron Area: 22,600 m² with integrated fueling infrastructure (equivalent to three football fields).

Below you will find pictures from the opening