Atlantic Airways

Atlantic Airways was established in 1987 and began operations in 1988. It is owned by the government of the Faroe Islands and functions as the territory’s national airline, providing essential air links for residents, businesses and visitors. Although classified as a low-cost airline, it also performs the broader role of a small regional flag carrier, with a network shaped by the Faroe Islands’ geographic isolation and limited local market.

The airline’s primary base is at Vágar Airport near Sorvágur, the only airport in the Faroe Islands. Its network comprises 12 routes serving seven destinations across five countries. The listed destinations are Sorvágur, Bergen, Copenhagen, Billund, Naples, Reykjavik and Stavanger, giving the carrier a focused presence in Scandinavia, Iceland and southern Europe. Sorvágur is its busiest departure hub, followed by Bergen, Copenhagen, Billund and Naples.

Aircraft types associated with Atlantic Airways’ route operations include the Airbus A319 and the Avro RJ100 and RJ85 Avroliner regional jets. These aircraft have supported a mixture of short- and medium-haul services, including routes requiring capacity suited to a relatively small home market. Passenger flights generally use an economy-focused cabin rather than multiple traditional service classes, while baggage, seat selection, flexibility and onboard inclusions depend on the fare and operating service.

Atlantic Airways does not belong to Star Alliance, SkyTeam or Oneworld, so passengers should not expect reciprocal status privileges across a major global alliance. The airline has operated its own loyalty programme, Súlubonus, through which eligible customers can earn and redeem points within its network. Travellers should confirm current membership, accrual and redemption conditions with the airline because eligible fares and programme benefits may change over time.

The airline’s main strength is the direct connectivity it provides for the Faroe Islands, particularly through Sorvágur and established Scandinavian gateways. Its small scale is also a practical challenge: disruptions caused by wind, fog or operational constraints may be harder to absorb when spare aircraft and alternative departures are limited. Some services may operate infrequently, so travellers should allow generous connection time and consider flexible arrangements. The longest route is Copenhagen to Naples, covering about 1,644 km nonstop.