Passengers briefed on unauthorised Icelandair flypast as investigation escalates

Passengers aboard the Icelandair flight that conducted a low-altitude flyover of Vestmannaeyjar were informed in advance by the captain, who described it as a farewell gesture on his final flight.

Despite passenger awareness—and largely positive reactions onboard—the airline confirmed the manoeuvre was carried out without its knowledge or approval and would likely not have been authorised. The pilot had requested a route deviation, which was approved by air navigation services, but the low-altitude execution appears to have breached operational procedures.

The incident has now been referred to the Icelandic Transport Authority and the police. Preliminary indications suggest the aircraft may have flown below permitted altitude limits.

While passengers described the experience as memorable, residents on the ground reported alarm due to the aircraft’s low altitude and noise. Icelandair has stressed that such deviations are unacceptable and confirmed a full internal and regulatory investigation is underway.