Egilsstadir Airport (EGS) – Complete Travel Guide 2026
IATA Code
EGS
ICAO Code
BIEG
Egilsstaðir Airport Quick Facts
| Airport Information | |
|---|---|
| Location | Miðvangur 2, 700 Egilsstaðir, Iceland |
| Website | https://www.isavia.is/en/egilsstadir-airport |
| Airlines | Icelandair |
| Terminals | Single Main Passenger Terminal |
| Annual Passengers | Approximately 100,000 |
| Hub for | Regional connectivity (not a primary airline hub, but essential for East Iceland) |
| Phone Number | +354 424 4000 |
Egilsstaðir Airport (EGS) serves as the primary aerial gateway to the breathtaking Eastfjords of Iceland. This compact, efficient airport is essential for connecting the remote eastern region with the capital and international destinations. With a single terminal catering to both domestic propeller flights and seasonal international jet services, Egilsstaðir Airport welcomes roughly 100,000 passengers annually. Here is everything you need to know before your journey.
Egilsstaðir Airport Terminal Map and Layout
Egilsstaðir Airport features a modern yet cozy single-terminal design. The layout is linear, allowing passengers to navigate from the check-in desks, through security, and to the gates without confusion. Given the compact size, there are no complex train systems or lengthy underground walkways; everything is easily accessible on foot.
Navigating Egilsstaðir Airport Terminals
The airport operates entirely out of one Main Terminal. Renovations in recent years have brought the facility up to a high standard, blending classic Nordic design with essential modern amenities.
Main Terminal
- Airlines: Icelandair operates all check-in counters in this area.
- Features: The terminal houses the security checkpoint, a small but vibrant arrivals hall, car rental desks directly opposite baggage claim, and the departure lounge.
- Dining and Shopping: While the airside lounge area is modest, it provides sufficient seating, a café kiosk offering Icelandic pastries and coffee, and a duty-free shopping area accessible to departing passengers.
| Terminal | Airlines | Access |
|---|---|---|
| Main Terminal | Icelandair | All arrivals and departures |
Transportation to and from Egilsstaðir Airport
Egilsstaðir Airport is conveniently situated just 2 kilometers from the town center, making the transfer exceptionally quick. Whether you prefer the independence of a rental car or the ease of a taxi, you can be in the heart of Egilsstaðir within roughly 5 minutes.
Getting to and from Egilsstaðir Airport by Car
Driving is the most popular way to access the airport. Route 1 (the Ring Road) passes right by the town, and local road Miðvangur leads you straight to the terminal entrance. There is virtually no traffic congestion in Egilsstaðir, making driving exceptionally stress-free.
Parking at Egilsstaðir Airport
Parking is remarkably straightforward and, best of all, completely free of charge. The parking lot is situated directly in front of the terminal building, no more than a one-minute walk from the check-in counters.
- Short-term parking: Ideal for pick-ups and drop-offs or short trips of a few days. Free of charge.
- Long-term parking: The same lot serves long-term parkers. You can leave your vehicle for extended periods without incurring fees. No shuttle is necessary due to the immediate proximity to the terminal.
- Electric vehicle charging stations: Available on-site for those renting electric vehicles or traveling in their own.
Getting to and from Egilsstaðir Airport by Taxi or Rideshare
Ride-sharing apps like Uber or Lyft do not operate in East Iceland. Instead, local taxi services provide reliable transport. It is strongly recommended to pre-book your taxi, especially for early morning flights or late-night arrivals, as cars are not simply cruising for street pickups.
- Designated pickup area: Directly outside the arrivals hall entrance.
- Estimated fare to town center: Approximately $15 to $20 USD, though prices can vary slightly based on exact drop-off points within the town.
- Payment methods: Major credit cards are universally accepted, alongside Icelandic króna and contactless payment.
Getting to and from Egilsstaðir Airport by Public Transportation
Public bus services connect the airport with the broader East Iceland region, though schedules are heavily influenced by flight arrival and departure times. The primary town bus stop is located only a short distance away on the main road, which is easily walkable in good weather, but coordination is key.
| Route | First Bus | Last Bus | Frequency | Fare |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Strætó Bus / Local Services | Operated in sync with flight arrivals | Operated in sync with flight departures | Irregular; based on flight schedule | Approximately $5-$10 USD |
Key Amenities at Egilsstaðir Airport
ATMs
An ATM is available in the check-in area before security. As Iceland is a highly cashless society, you will likely only need cards for your transactions, but the option exists for emergency cash withdrawals.
Lost and Found
Items left on aircraft typically end up with Icelandair's handling agents. Items lost within the terminal itself are handled by the airport information desk. Contact the airport's main line at +354 424 4000 to report a lost item immediately.
Luggage Services
Luggage carts are available free of charge in the arrivals area. There is no luggage wrapping service or long-term luggage storage facility at the airport, so plan to take all belongings with you upon arrival.
Pet Relief Areas
There are outdoor grassy areas immediately outside the terminal building suitable for pet relief. There is no dedicated indoor pet restroom. For rules on flying with pets on Icelandair to and from Egilsstaðir, contact the airline directly in advance.
Showers
No public shower facilities exist at the airport. There are also no airline lounges providing this amenity. Passengers on long layovers usually head into the town of Egilsstaðir, which is only minutes away, where the local swimming pool offers excellent shower and sauna facilities.
Currency Exchange
A currency exchange desk is not readily visible within the terminal. Most transactions at the café and taxi stands accept cards. It is best to withdraw ISK directly from the ATM if cash is desired.
Smoking Area
Smoking is strictly prohibited inside the terminal building. Designated smoking areas are located outside the terminal, away from the main entrance doors.
WiFi
Free, unlimited WiFi is available throughout the terminal. Simply select the "Isavia Free WiFi" network on your device; no password is necessary. Charging stations are also located near the departure gate seating.
Airport Lounges at Egilsstaðir Airport
Egilsstaðir Airport prioritizes simplicity. There are no airline-specific lounges, credit card-affiliated lounges, or Priority Pass locations within the airport. The airside departure hall itself is designed to be a comfortable, all-access waiting area with floor-to-ceiling windows overlooking the runway and nearby mountains.
| Lounge Name | Location | Access Method | Day Pass Cost | Key Features |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| No dedicated lounges available | N/A | N/A | N/A | General departure hall seating and café are available to all passengers |
Other Airports in the Region
East Iceland is remote, and driving to a different airport is a significant undertaking. However, for the sake of road-trip planning, here are the closest alternative gateways.
Akureyri Airport (AEY)
- Distance to Egilsstaðir: Approximately 265 km (165 miles); roughly a 3-hour drive across the highlands.
- Best for: Those touring the North Iceland ring road who need a backup option.
- Unique advantages: Slightly larger airport with more frequent flights and connectivity.
Hornafjörður Airport (HFN)
- Distance to Egilsstaðir: Approximately 185 km (115 miles); roughly a 2-hour drive south along the ring road.
- Best for: Emergency diversions or chartered flights to the Vatnajökull region.
- Unique advantages: Scenic coastal landing strip.
Egilsstaðir Airport Overview
Egilsstaðir Airport is a vital lifeline for the scattered villages and dramatic fjords of Iceland's eastern corridor. While the official name is simply Egilsstaðir Airport and the IATA code is EGS, locals often refer to it by its distinct ICAO identifier, BIEG. The airport sits at an elevation of 76 feet on the banks of the Lagarfljót river plain, roughly 2 km from the town center. It is a purely civilian airport. The single runway is long enough to accommodate the Boeing 757 and 737 MAX jets that Icelandair uses for seasonal international routes.
Egilsstaðir Airport Postal Code
- Postal Code: 700
- City: Egilsstaðir
- Province/State: Eastern Region (Austurland)
- Country: Iceland
- Address: Miðvangur 2, 700 Egilsstaðir, Iceland
Duty Free and Shopping at Egilsstaðir Airport
Duty-free shopping is available for passengers departing on international flights after passing through security. The selection covers the standard Icelandic essentials—confectionery, spirits, and cosmetics. The café on the airside serves incredibly fresh local fare and freshly brewed coffee.
👉 Tip: If you are looking for authentic hand-knitted lopapeysa sweaters or local art, purchase these in the town of Egilsstaðir itself before arriving at the airport, as the airport selection leans heavily on edibles and liquor.
| Product | Category | Approximate Price (USD) |
|---|---|---|
| Icelandic Chocolate (ris) | Confectionery | $4 - $6 |
| Brennivín (Icelandic Schnapps) | Spirits | $25 - $35 |
| Blue Lagoon Skincare Set | Cosmetics | $40 - $70 |
| Dried Fish (Harðfiskur) | Local Food | $8 - $12 |
| Birch Syrup | Local Gourmet | $10 - $15 |
Security Wait Times at Egilsstaðir Airport
Security at Egilsstaðir Airport is famously efficient. The airport does not yet utilize TSA PreCheck or CLEAR systems, which are strictly American programs, but the limited number of passengers and flights means lines rarely form.
| Terminal | Typical Wait Time | Peak Hours |
|---|---|---|
| Main Terminal | Under 10 minutes | 45 minutes before flight departure |
- Peak travel times: Thursday mornings and Sunday afternoons see a slight uptick in local traffic.
- Tips: Standard European liquid restrictions (100ml per container) apply strictly. Laptops and tablets must be removed from bags.
Egilsstaðir Airport Drop Off and Pick Up Information
- Departures drop-off: Pull up to the curb directly outside the main entrance. Parking is free, but vehicles cannot be left unattended at the curb.
- Arrivals pick-up: The same curb services arrivals. The cell phone waiting lot is moot here; you can simply park for free and walk inside to greet your party.
- Commercial vehicles: A designated area near the terminal entrance serves taxis and pre-booked charters.
Flight Routes and Airlines at Egilsstaðir Airport
Icelandair is the sole operator, but its network spans remarkably wide from this regional outpost.
- Domestic: Frequent daily flights connect Egilsstaðir to Reykjavík Airport (RKV—the domestic downtown airport, not Keflavík). Flight time is approximately one hour.
- International: Seasonal summer routes offer direct connections to European destinations such as Copenhagen (CPH) and sometimes Malaga (AGP) and even New York (JFK).
- Hub Status: While not a hub, it is a crucial spoke for Icelandair's tourism and freight network.
Car Rental at Egilsstaðir Airport
A self-drive holiday is the single best way to explore the Eastfjords, and Egilsstaðir Airport is perfectly set up for this. The remote nature of the area means having a car booked in advance is essential—availability is limited, especially for 4x4 vehicles during the high summer season.
| Company | Location | Vehicle Types |
|---|---|---|
| Avis | Inside the terminal | Economy, Sedans, SUVs, 4x4 |
| Budget | Inside the terminal | Compact, Intermediate, 4x4 |
| Local Operators | Near the terminal | Campers, Large 4x4 (Land Cruiser, Dacia Duster) |
Rental counters are located directly opposite the baggage belt in the arrivals hall. It is highly advised to reserve a 4x4 if you plan on visiting the highlands, remote fjords like Borgarfjörður Eystri, or traveling in winter. AWD vehicles handle the gravel roads and sudden weather changes far better than compact cars.
Private Car Services and Hotel Shuttles
Private car services can be arranged via local taxi companies with fixed rates to area lodges. Many countryside guesthouses offer complimentary pickup if arranged directly in advance. There are no official large-scale hotel shuttle loops run by the airport itself.
Places to Explore Near Egilsstaðir Airport
The land of fire and ice dominates East Iceland, with some of the country's most magnificent natural wonders located just a short drive from the airport.
- Hengifoss Waterfall (Approx. 35 km / 40-minute drive): One of the highest waterfalls in Iceland, famous for its striking red clay layers sandwiched between basalt. A moderate hike leads to a stunning view.
- Seyðisfjörður (Approx. 27 km / 30-minute drive): A charming rainbow-paved town over a mountain pass. The road (Route 93) is stunning but can be dangerous in winter.
- Vök Baths (Approx. 5 km / 5-minute drive): Floating geothermal infinity pools on Lake Urriðavatn. Only minutes from the terminal, they are the perfect first or last stop for relaxation. Geothermal waters float around $45-$50 USD for entry.
- Borgarfjörður Eystri (Approx. 70 km / 1.5-hour drive): A remote village offering world-class hiking trails and easily accessible puffin colonies during the summer months. A 4x4 is recommended for parts of this gravel route.
- Stuðlagil Canyon (Approx. 70 km / 1-hour drive): A mind-bending basalt column canyon with intensely blue glacial water.
Local Weather and Best Time to Visit Egilsstaðir
East Iceland weather is famously capricious. The area tends to be sunnier than the rest of the country during the summer but can be hit by intense fog or snow in the winter.
- Summer (June-August): Average temperatures range from 10°C to 15°C (50°F to 59°F). The midnight sun provides nearly 24 hours of daylight. This is peak season for direct international flights.
- Winter (November-March): Temperatures hover around -5°C to 2°C (23°F to 36°F). Deep snow is common, making the northern lights visible on clear nights. Flight delays due to weather are more probable.
- Shoulder Season (April-May & September-October): Often the best value. Fewer crowds, snow-capped mountains, and generally manageable weather for Ring Road driving.
Essential Travel Tips
- Arrival Time: Arriving 45 minutes before a domestic flight and 90 minutes before an international flight is sufficient due to the airport's size.
- Fuel: N1 and Orkan gas stations operate on the ring road less than 2 km from the terminal. Fill up here before heading north toward the wilderness where stations are sparse.
- Currency: The Icelandic Króna (ISK) is the official currency. Cards are king—contactless payment is available at the airport, taxis, and even the smallest farm shops.
- Packing: Never leave without a waterproof/windproof jacket and sturdy boots, regardless of the calendar month.
- Driver's License: A standard US or EU license is accepted for rentals. No International Driving Permit is required unless your license is in a non-Roman alphabet.
About the City of Egilsstaðir
Egilsstaðir is the beating heart of East Iceland. With a population hovering around 2,500, it is the largest settlement in the region and acts as the primary service center—boasting supermarkets, a hospital, bars, and restaurants that rival Reykjavik in freshness. The town was founded in 1947 on the banks of the Lagarfljót, a deep lake rumored to house the Lagarfljótsormurinn (a giant serpent worm).
Local cuisine is a highlight here. Visit the farm-to-table restaurants in town to try locally sourced reindeer, wild goose, and arctic char. The nearby Wilderness Center showcases the region's farms and folklore. For those driving the Ring Road or hunting the Northern Lights away from the capital's light pollution, Egilsstaðir Airport serves as the perfect starting base.
Start Your Journey at Egilsstaðir Airport
Stepping off the plane at Egilsstaðir Airport feels like walking into a nature documentary. The crisp air, the sweeping views of Iceland's highest peaks outside the Highlands, and the serenity of the Eastfjords are instantly on your doorstep. Whether your itinerary includes the puffins of Borgarfjörður or the serene floating spas of Vök, planning your ground transport ahead of time ensures you waste no natural light.
Compare car rental options directly at the terminal to secure the perfect vehicle for the rugged East Icelandic terrain. Book your car rental at Egilsstaðir Airport today and unlock some of Iceland's last truly wild landscapes.
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