Air Iceland (Reykjavik Domestic) has announced it has rebranded itself as Air Iceland Connect (Reykjavik Domestic) as of Wednesday, May 24. The Icelandic regional specialist said in a statement that it had decided to modify its name owing to a myriad of factors including increased exposure to foreign markets and therefore tourist traffic, increased co-operation with Icelandair (FI, Reykjavik Keflavik) and to simplify marketing, as the company’s dual name system has meant a significant increase in costs and has caused some passengers inconvenience and led to misunderstandings.

“We have used the name Air Iceland for years, but by adding the word 'Connect', we are showing our connection to Icelandic nature and destinations, connecting with our foreign destinations such as Greenland, Scotland and Northern Ireland and distinguishing ourselves slightly from Icelandair," Árni Gunnarsson, Managing Director of Air Iceland Connect, said. "This is a global, descriptive name, and we are convinced that it will create a strong airline brand in the international aviation market."

In addition to the complete renewal of its fleet wherein it swapped out its Fokker 50s for three Dash 8-200s and three Dash 8-400s, Air Iceland Connect has, in recent months, also expanded its domestic and European network coverage. Flights to Akureyri were recently increased alongside frequencies to Greenland and Scotland which will take place from June 1. Flights to Belfast City, Northern Ireland, are also set to launch from June 1 onwards.