If you’re visiting Akureyri and have an interest in aviation—or even if you’re just curious about Iceland’s connection to the skies—you might find the Icelandic Aviation Museum a surprisingly engaging stop. I’ve looked into this experience, and it’s one of those tours that offers a nice mix of history, hands-on exploration, and unique photo opportunities.
One thing I really appreciate is that the admission includes access to historic aircrafts, some of which are still in flying condition. Plus, the museum does a good job of telling the story of Iceland’s aviation development from 1919 to today—something that’s both educational and visually interesting. On the flip side, it’s worth noting that a visit here is best suited for those with a genuine interest in aircraft or history, since it’s not a sprawling or interactive theme park but more of a focused museum experience.
Overall, if you’re into learning about Iceland’s skies—whether as a aviation buff or just someone looking for a quiet, indoor activity—the museum offers solid value. It’s flexible with booking, accessible, and offers enough to keep you curious for an hour or two, especially if you appreciate seeing actual aircraft up close.
Key Points

- History in focus: The museum covers Iceland’s aviation from 1919 onward, making it ideal for history buffs.
- Hands-on aircraft: You can explore the interiors of some historic aircraft, which is quite rare in museums like these.
- Airworthy aircraft: Some planes are still flying and participate in annual air shows, adding a dynamic element to the experience.
- Flexible booking: You can reserve your ticket with the option to pay later, which helps if your plans are still uncertain.
- Accessible for all: The museum is wheelchair accessible, making it an inclusive experience.
- Good value: The ticket price offers access to a range of exhibits, videos, photos, and aircraft, making it a worthwhile spend for aviation enthusiasts.
What Can You Expect from Your Visit?

The Icelandic Aviation Museum is located conveniently at Akureyri Airport, which makes arriving straightforward, especially if you’re already in the area. From the moment you step inside, you’ll find yourself immersed in Iceland’s aviation journey through a variety of exhibits—ranging from photographs and videos to aircraft models.
Planning more time in Akureyri? We've covered other experiences worth considering.
The Collection of Aircrafts
One of the main highlights is the collection of aircrafts, including airplanes and helicopters. Some of these are still airworthy, which means you might catch a glimpse of a plane that could genuinely take to the skies again. Several visitors have remarked that seeing these aircraft up close is a real treat, especially if you’re a plane geek. You can even go inside some planes and see how they were designed—giving you a peek into the engineering that helped Iceland develop its air connections.
The Exhibits and Media
The museum does a good job of storytelling through photographs, videos, artifacts, and models. These displays illustrate the country’s aviation evolution, including the role of aircraft in medical transport and the Icelandic Coast Guard. Watching videos and viewing photographs help put everything into perspective, especially if you’re interested in the stories behind the aircraft and their roles in Icelandic life.
The Air Show & Special Events
A bonus for aviation fans: some aircraft are in airworthy condition and participate in the annual air show held every June. If your visit coincides with this event, you might get an extra thrill watching planes perform aerial displays or even fly in and out of the museum.
More Great Tours NearbyThe Interior Access
Exploring the interiors of some of the planes allows you to see the cockpit and passenger areas, which adds a layer of insight into what it was like to fly those aircraft. For history lovers, this part often feels like a rare peek behind the curtain.
Practical Tips for Visiting

- Timing: The ticket is valid for one day, but check availability for the exact starting times. Planning ahead ensures you don’t miss the opportunity to explore thoroughly.
- Photography: You’re welcome to take photos, but flash photography is restricted—so bring a camera that handles low light if you want the best shots.
- Accessibility: The museum’s location at the airport and its wheelchair-friendly design mean it’s accessible for most visitors.
- Cost & Value: The admission fee feels reasonable considering the range of exhibits and the chance to see aircraft that have real historical significance. If you’re into aviation, it’s a good buy.
Who Should Consider Visiting?

This experience is especially suited for aviation enthusiasts, history buffs, or families with a curious mind. If you enjoy seeing real aircraft and learning about how aviation played a role in Iceland’s development, you’ll find plenty to enjoy here. It’s also a quiet indoor activity if you’re looking for a break from outdoor adventures. However, if you’re after a large, interactive experience or outdoor activities, this might feel a bit limited.
The Sum Up
All in all, the Icelandic Aviation Museum in Akureyri offers a well-rounded, honest look into Iceland’s skies. It’s a good value for those who appreciate history, aircraft, or just a different kind of museum experience. The chance to walk inside real aircraft and see some still in flying condition makes it stand out. Plus, the option to book tickets flexibly, and the fact that it’s wheelchair accessible, makes it practical for a wide range of visitors.
For anyone interested in aviation or seeking a relaxed, educational stop during their Iceland trip, this museum is worth considering. It’s not the biggest museum out there, but it’s thoughtfully curated and offers enough to keep you engaged without overwhelming you.
Akureyri: Icelandic Aviation Museum Admission Ticket
FAQs

Is there a specific start time for the visit?
The ticket is valid for one day, but you’ll need to check availability for the exact starting times. It’s best to plan ahead so you can fit it into your day.
Can I see aircraft in flying condition?
Yes, some aircraft are still airworthy and participate in the annual air show held in June. If you visit during this time, you might see planes flying in or out of the museum.
Are children allowed inside the museum?
While not explicitly stated, the museum is wheelchair accessible and suitable for most visitors. Kids interested in aircraft will likely enjoy exploring the planes and exhibits, but it’s best for older children who can appreciate the displays.
Is photography allowed?
Yes, photography is permitted, but flash photography is restricted to protect the exhibits and aircraft.
How long should I plan for the visit?
Most visitors seem to spend about an hour or two exploring the exhibits, aircraft, and media displays. If you’re particularly interested in aircraft interiors or want to watch videos in detail, allocate more time.
Does the ticket include guided tours?
No, the ticket grants admission only. However, the exhibits and videos are self-guided, and the museum staff (host or greeter) provides assistance in English.
If you’re in Akureyri and have even a passing interest in aircraft or history, visiting the Icelandic Aviation Museum could be a surprisingly rewarding experience. It’s straightforward, reasonably priced, and offers a unique glimpse into how Iceland’s skies have been navigated over the past century.
You can check availability for your dates here:More Tour Reviews in Akureyri
More Akureyri experiences we've covered
- Akureyri: Northern Lights Photography Tour
- East Glacial River Extreme Rafting
- Akureyri: Snowshoe Hiking Tour with Guide
- From Akureyri: Diamond Circle Tour with Waterfalls
- Akureyri: Lake Mývatn and Godafoss Waterfall Tour
- Akureyri: Goðafoss Waterfall & City Highlights Voyage
- Akureyri Private Walking Tour
- Akureyri: Zipline Tour
- Akureyri: Food Walk With 5 Tastings and Local Guide
- From Akureyri Port: Diamond Circle Guided Day Trip w/ Lunch
- Akureyri: Snowshoeing with The Traveling Viking
- From Akureyri: Myvatn Lake, Craters, & Waterfall Tour


