Delta Flight Route: Minneapolis (MSP) to Reykjavik (KEF)
Everything you need to fly Origin to Destination: timing, airlines, and insider tips.
Seasonal (Summer)
Flown by Delta
Delta Air Lines connects the Upper Midwest directly to the North Atlantic with its seasonal service between Minneapolis-Saint Paul and Reykjavik. This route provides a streamlined gateway for travelers looking to explore Iceland's dramatic landscapes without the need for East Coast connections.
The route connects Minneapolis (MSP) in the United States to Keflavik International Airport (KEF) in Iceland. Operated as a seasonal summer service, it utilizes the reliable Boeing 757-200 aircraft, catering to high demand during the peak travel months in Europe.
“As the only major US carrier offering a non-stop link from the MSP hub to Iceland, this route is essential for SkyMiles members and Midwest-based travelers. it saves significant travel time compared to layovers in New York or Boston.”
Airline
Delta
Region
Europe
Aircraft
Boeing 757-200
Service
Seasonal (Summer)
Airports
Landing and taking off
Departure
Minneapolis-Saint Paul International Airport (MSP)
Check-In
Delta departures are located in Terminal 1. Use the Skyway security checkpoint if the main lines are long.
Connections
MSP is a major hub with easy light rail access to downtown Minneapolis and the Mall of America.
Security
Arrive at least 3 hours before your international flight to ensure smooth processing through TSA.
Arrival
Keflavik International Airport (KEF)
On Arrival
Most Delta flights arrive early in the morning; consider pre-booking a lounge or spa visit as hotels may not have rooms ready.
Ground Transport
The Flybus and Airport Direct are the most reliable shuttle services to downtown Reykjavik.
Planning Ahead
Iceland uses the Icelandic Krona, but credit cards are accepted everywhere, including for very small transactions.
Booking, timing and fares
Timing & Reliability
Schedule. Usually an evening departure from MSP arriving early morning in KEF.
Duration. Eastbound flights are shorter due to tailwinds; westbound return flights take roughly 7 hours and 30 minutes.
Seasonality. Service typically begins in late May and concludes in early September.
Time Zones. Reykjavik is 5 to 6 hours ahead of Minneapolis depending on Daylight Savings.
Fares & Booking
Booking Window. Monitor prices starting in January for the upcoming summer season.
Cabin Advice. Delta One is highly recommended for the overnight eastbound leg to arrive rested in Iceland.
Peak Pricing. Prices skyrocket in July; traveling in late May or early September often yields better value.
Peak
June to August is the absolute peak with daily flights and high load factors.
Shoulder
Late May and early September offer slightly lower crowds and prices.
Off-Peak
This route is suspended from October through April.
- Book at least 4 months in advance to secure reasonable summer fares.
- Use the Delta flexible dates calendar to find the lowest price points within the seasonal window.
- Consider upgrading to Comfort Plus for extra legroom on the 6-hour overnight leg.
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Best Time to Fly Origin to Destination
June
Ideal for experiencing the Midnight Sun and maximum daylight for sightseeing.
July
The warmest month for exploring the Icelandic highlands and interior roads.
August
Great for puffin watching and attending various summer festivals in Reykjavik.
Trip Planning
Who this route suits
Best For
Adventure Seekers
Iceland's glaciers, volcanoes, and waterfalls are easily accessible via this direct hop.
Delta Medallion Members
Perfect for maximizing MQDs on a high-value international route while staying within the Delta ecosystem.
Midwest Families
Provides a convenient way to reach Europe without the complexity of East Coast hub transfers.
Connections & Alternatives
Akureyri
Fly domestically from Reykjavik to explore the northern Diamond Circle.
London (LHR)
Iceland is a popular stopover point for travelers heading further into Europe.
Travel Tips for the Origin-Destination Route
Good to Know
Visa & Entry
- US citizens can enter Iceland for up to 90 days for tourism without a visa.
- Passport must be valid for at least three months beyond your intended date of departure.
- Iceland is part of the Schengen Area, so standard EU entry rules apply.
Airport Transfers
- Pre-book car rentals well in advance as summer demand in Iceland is extremely high.
- The drive from KEF to Reykjavik takes approximately 45 minutes.
- Taxis are readily available outside the terminal but are significantly more expensive than bus transfers.
Baggage & Transit
- Pack a heavy waterproof layer even in summer as Icelandic weather is unpredictable.
- Check Delta's specific weight limits for international narrow-body flights.
- Ensure your carry-on meets international dimensions which can be stricter than US domestic standards.
Checklist
- Valid US Passport.
- Type F power adapter for Iceland.
- Waterproof hiking boots and rain gear.
- Pre-booked tickets for popular attractions like the Blue Lagoon.
Airlines Flying Origin to Destination
Delta
Daily seasonal service during peak summer.
The B757-200 features a two or three-cabin configuration including Delta One or First Class.
Common questions
Is the MSP to Reykjavik flight available in the winter?
No, Delta operates this specific route seasonally, typically during the summer months from May to September.
Which terminal does Delta use at MSP for flights to Iceland?
Delta operates out of Terminal 1 (Lindbergh Terminal) at Minneapolis-Saint Paul International Airport.
What kind of plane does Delta fly from Minneapolis to Reykjavik?
Delta primarily uses the Boeing 757-200 for this trans-atlantic route.
How long is the flight from MSP to KEF?
The flight typically takes about 6 hours and 15 minutes to reach Iceland, while the return trip is around 7 hours and 30 minutes.
Does Delta provide meals on the Minneapolis to Reykjavik flight?
Yes, as an international long-haul flight, Delta provides complimentary meals, snacks, and beverages.
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